Ms. Annie Luretha Gray was born on June 30, 1937, in West Point, Mississippi, to the union of Will Gray and Jennie Mae Clay, both of whom preceded her in death. Mother Gray was preceded in death by her son, Sterling, Frederick, Devoshia Gray; and two grandsons, Derek Gray and Isaiah Gray.

At the age of four, she moved to East St. Louis, Illinois, where she became a lifelong resident and the proud mother of eleven children.

Throughout her life, Mother Gray held many positions of employment, mostly centered around children. She had a natural talent for cooking and passion for family. If you ever came to her home, you would NOT leave hungry or without a good talking-to.

Her final job before retirement was as a caregiver for Dr. Jay (Susan) Pepose and their four children, David, Max, Sam, and Morissa. Over the years, she became a beloved member of their family, a bond that lasted until her passing.

As the true matriarch of the Gray family, she lived by two firm rules: D on't mess with my kids and don't mess with my money!

In 1983, Mother Gray accepted Christ at Community Mission C.O.G.I.C. under the leadership of Bishop Lemuel N. Moore Sr. She served faithfully as a member of the Mother's Board and as head of hospitality. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 23.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. Cherishing her memory are: daughters, Valerie J. Anderson (Keith), Vivian Cunningham, Regina A. Hasson, Pamela M. Gray, Tracy D. Williams, Darlene Pickens (James); sons, Ricky C. Gray, Timothy Gray (Tifani); brother, Jimmie E. Gray (Wanda).

She was also blessed with 19 grandchildren, Rhonni Guyton (Bryan), Mario Foster, Candice McCoy, Lakieta Spears, Alicia Hasson, Tadarrell Spears, Farren Moore (Robert), Timeesha Gray, Cortney Gray, Evinn Williams (Katie), Malika Lewis, Andrew Williams, Jr., Jada Pickens, Darvus Pickens, Devoshia Gray Jr., Donnesha Gray, Deaysha Gray, David Gray, Anissa Martin, along with a host of great-grandchildren and extended family.

Mother Gray also held a special place in her heart for her dear friends, Cassandra Eason (Daniel), Tyair, Dannair, Daneille, Calvin Cunningham, and Emily Smith-Costello.

She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her strength, love, and wisdom will live through the family and friends she touched throughout her incredible life.