Betty Gray

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Betty Elaine Brecheen Gray, a devoted mother, grandmother, and custodian, on September 12, 2024. Born in Greensburg, LA on January 22, 1924, Betty was a cherished member of the Paragould, AR community, where she resided at the time of her passing.

Betty was a woman of strength and resilience, raising her children single-handedly after the passing of her husband, James, in 1968. Despite facing adversity, Betty always maintained her warm and kind demeanor. Her belief that "if you can't say something nice about someone, you shouldn't say anything at all" resonated with all who knew her.

In her free time, Betty could be found tending to her garden, cultivating a beautiful array of flowers and vegetables, with tomatoes being her favorite. Her love for gardening was only surpassed by her deep affection for her family. Betty's unwavering dedication to her loved ones was evident in everything she did.

A faithful member of the Rector Primitive Baptist Church, Betty's relationship with God was central to her life. Her sweetness, tender heart, and love for the Lord left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Betty is survived by two daughters, Hazel Williams of Paragould and Elaine (Paul) Osborn of Fort Scott, KS; two sons, Jerry (Carolyn) Gray of Paragould and Mike (Lisa) Gray of Jonesboro; brothers Alex (Earlene) Brecheen of Clinton, AR and Wayne Brecheen of Forrest City, AR; 18 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, James Gray; her parents Alexander Brecheen and Bertie Brecheen; her stepmother, Rosie Brecheen; her sons Garry Lee and Wilman; her sisters Thelma Long and Wilma Smith; her brothers Marion Brecheen, Robert Brecheen and David Brecheen; her granddaughter, Stephanie Thomason; her grandson, Christopher Osborn and her great-grandson, Aiden Osborn.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the public visitation at Heath Funeral Home on September 15, 2024, starting at 2:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at Pine Log Cemetery, where Betty will be laid to rest at 3:15 pm on the same day. Elder Devon Horton and Elder Jeremy Horton will be presiding. Pallbearers will be grandsons Greg Williams, Brandon Gray, Jeff Gray, Gary Gray, Michael Gray and Jerrid Gray.

Although Betty Elaine Gray may have left this world, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will be cherished for generations to come.