Rita Gray

February 17, 1937 — February 25, 2025

Rita C. Gray passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025, in Maroa, Illinois, at the age of 88. She was surrounded by her loving family as she entered into eternal rest.

Visitation will be 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Life Foursquare Church, 2954 W Ash Ave, Decatur, IL. Funeral service will be 11:00 AM, Thursday at the church with Pastor Steve Hohm officiating. Burial will be in Boiling Springs Cemetery, Decatur.

Born on February 17, 1937, to Readis and Dolly Poole, Rita spent much of her life in Decatur, Illinois, where she devoted herself to faith, family, and community. Her unwavering love for Jesus guided her every step, and she made it her mission to share that love with everyone she met.

A pillar of her church community, Rita found great joy in serving others through ministry. She taught Sunday school with warmth and wisdom, led prayer meetings with steadfast devotion, and lifted spirits through worship with her beautiful voice in the choir. She was a source of comfort to many as she ministered to the sick with care and compassion. Her presence was a blessing to all who knew her.

In 1956 Rita married Richard B. Gray, and together they built a life centered on love and faith. Their journey was enriched when they adopted two children who became their greatest joy. They shared 57 wonderful years together before Richard’s passing in 2013.

Rita cherished time spent with her grandchildren and adored her great-grandbabies beyond measure. She is survived by her son Douglas Gray (Vickie) and daughter Kristin Jones (Robert), along with her beloved grandchildren: Justin Gray (Manda), Amanda Wilson (Donnie), Brandon Gray (Shelby), Zachary Hardy (Emma), and Allie Alexander (Collin). Her great-grandchildren—Dominick, Natalee, Cooper, Beckham, Wyatt, and Berkelee—brought immense happiness to her heart. She also leaves behind special nieces and nephews as well as many dear friends who were touched by her love, kindness and unwavering faith.

As she enters Heaven’s gates, she is reunited with her adoring husband Richard and her faithful furry companion Hershey. May the memories of Rita bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

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