Joyce Lorene (Curley) Gray

Joyce Lorene (Curley) Gray was born March 30, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri. She was of a large family, being one of eleven children born to Delbert and Edna Lorene (Fox) Curley. Joyce grew up in Dent County and graduated from Salem High School. On December 29, 1967, Joyce was united in marriage to the love of her life, David Orin Gray. Together they shared nearly fifty years of marriage and lasting memories before his passing November 18, 2017. Joyce and David were blessed to share four children: Donnie, Glenda, David Jr., and Katrina. Joyce was an accomplished real estate agent for many years having helped many families find and sell their homes. She loved her job and was very knowledgeable and passionate about what she did. Joyce was a loving wife and mother, and her family was her primary focus throughout her life. There was nothing she loved more than her family and being a grandmother and great-grandmother later in life. Joyce was a talented cook and baker; nobody ever went away from her home hungry. She loved to prepare delicious food for her family and friends. Joyce was well known for her pies and as a hobby started Pies by Joyce Gray, selling hundreds of them throughout the years. Joyce was a shining example of a Chrisian lady. Her faith was a constant source of strength and comfort that she shared with others. She was an encourager and often brightened the lives of those around her with her beautiful contagious smile. For many years, she attended Montauk Baptist Church. Joyce entered Heaven June 21, 2025, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of seventy-seven years. Those left behind to cherish her memory include her loving children: Donnie Gray and wife Donnalyn of Salem, MO, Glenda Bollinger of Salem, MO, David Gray Jr and wife Amanda of Salem, MO, and Katrina Heitman and husband Aaron of Rolla, MO; grandchildren: Jason Gray and wife Britnee, Amy Lynn Gray, Joshua Bollinger, David Gray III, Dawson Gray, Devin Gray, Lauryn Cervantes, Jonah Heitman and wife Patricia, Adrianna Gray Heitman, and Elijah Heitman and wife Alyssa; great-grandchildren: Chandler Gray and wife Lexy, Ava Gray; Delaney, Josie, and Stella Roehrs; Ava, Kasyn, and Jaxon Bollinger, Dean David Heitman, and Myles Orin Gray; sister: Janice Roper and husband Bob; brother-in-law: Lyndell Decker; sisters-in-law: Sandy Curley, Mary Ann Curley, and Linda Nalley; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her husband: David Orin Gray; parents: Delbert and Lorene Curley; brothers: Wayne Curley and wife Gisela, Allen Curley, Larry Curley, Leroy Curley, Michael Curley, and Jack Curley; sisters: Theresa Decker, Gail Curley and Brenda Curley; granddaughter: Erin Elisabeth Roehrs; and great-granddaughter: Kennedy Marie Bollinger. Joyce was the heart and soul of her home, radiating warmth and joy to all who knew her. She possessed a spirit that was a beautiful blend of love, humor, and sass, often delighting those around her with her quick wit and playful banter. Her vibrant personality brought light into the lives of many, making even simple moments feel special. She will be forever missed. Funeral Services for Joyce Lorene (Curley) Gray were held Sunday, June 29, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Lyndell Decker officiating and grandson Jacob Heitman sharing the eulogy. Song selections played were “Goodness of God” and “Calling All Angels”. Serving as Pallbearers were Jason Gray, Joshua Bollinger, David Gray III, Jonah Heitman, Elijah Heitman, Dawson Gray, and Devin Gray. Burial was in the Green Forest Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Joyce Gray to Green Forest Cemetery Maintenance Fund and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Joyce’s special niece, Becky Sigman, for her compassionate care during Joyce’s final weeks, to Salem Residential Care for their loving care and support during her stay, and to Dr. Gregory Maynard for his care and compassion during her final days. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Joyce Lorene (Curley) Gray

March 30, 1948 - June 21, 2025