Barbara F. Gray Obituary (1937 - 2023)

Barbara Faye Gray, known affectionately as "Bobbie" to her loved ones, was a beacon of resilience, spirit, and adventure, who lived her life with an unwavering dedication to family, community, and service. Born on February 10, 1937, in Clinton, IL, Barbara's life was a testament to her strength, tenacity, and loving spirit. She found her way to Hattieville, Arkansas, where she made her home for the last eight years, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. Barbara, a spirited force of nature, was always up for an adventure. She had a passion for dancing, which reflected her free spirit and zest for life. Her other hobbies included knitting, reading, sewing, traveling, baking, and fishing. Barbara was not only adventurous in her personal life but also in her professional life. She served her community as a part-time EMT and volunteer firefighter and as a Co-Op Manager in the agricultural sector, retiring from Agriculture Co-op in Bee Branch, AR. Her unwavering dedication to her work and community earned her recognition for her service with the Van Buren County Rescue Squad, EMT, and the Morganton Volunteer Fire Department. Those who knew Barbara remember her as a resilient woman who faced life's challenges with grace and determination. She was widowed in 1992 but remained a pillar of strength for her family. She loved her family fiercely, cherishing every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Barbara was also a dedicated cat lover, finding comfort and companionship in her feline friends. Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love and determination. She is survived by her children, Colleen (David) Hopkins, Teressa Mahaney, and Robert Gray; her grandchildren, Drew (Amber) Cargile, James (Rebecca) Cargile, Eric Cargile, Lili (Naun) GuiterezCalix, Patrick (Jenni) Gray, and Courtney (John) Furlong; he r14 great-grandchildren and 7 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Noel Gray; her parents, Tenbrook and Vivian Ammann; her grandson, Aaron Cargile, Mark Mahaney Jr, and Kirk McAfee; her son-in-law, Mark Mahaney , and her great-grandsons, Ethan and Kaden Ray-Cargile. Barbara's life was a vivid tapestry of love, service, and resilience that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of her loved ones and the community she served with such dedication. Please honor Barbara's memory by sharing your stories, photos, and memories on her memorial page. Let us celebrate the adventurous and spirited life of Barbara Faye Gray, a woman who lived her life with such dedication and resilience.