Clara L. Gray

Clara Lillian Gray, daughter of Fred Gray & Elizabeth (Lasley) Gray, was born
August 24, 1907 in Simpson, Illinois. She departed this life Tuesday evening,
May 3, 2005, at 11:00 PM at the home of her Great Niece in Marion, Illinois. At
the time of her passing, Clara had attained the age of 97 years 8 months & 10
days.

Clara is survived by: 2 Nephews – Alan & Karen Gray and Kevin Gray, all of
Memphis, TN; a Niece – Paula & John Havlik of Champaign, IL; 2 Great Nieces –
April & Rachel; a Great Nephew – Christopher; 4 Great Grand Nieces & Nephews – Brianna, Isaac, Alura, & Conner; and a host of dear friends & former students.

In addition to her Parents, Clara was preceded in death by: a Brother – Harold
Gray and a Sister-in-Law – Betty Gray.
Clara was a lifelong educator. She taught at the Tunnel Hill, Simpson, & Maple
Grove Public Schools.

Clara dedicated 42 years of service to the field of education, prior to her retirement. Clara had received her Bachelors Degree in
Education from Southern Illinois University. She received her Masters Degree in
Education from Murray State University. Clara was a member of the Johnson
County Retired Teacher’s Association and the Whistler’s & Whittler’s Senior
Citizens Program.

Clara was a member of the Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian Church near Simpson, IL and had also regularly attended the Vienna First Baptist Church.
Clara was an accomplished artist and loved to share her artwork with friends &
family.

Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon, May 6, 2005, at 1 PM at Bailey
Funeral Home in Vienna, Illinois. Rev. Willard Murrie will officiate. Interment
will be in the Gilead Cemetery, near Simpson, Illinois. Friends may call after
6 PM Thursday at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna.

Memorials may be made to the Art Dept. of Shawnee Community College c/o Shawnee
Community College Foundation, c/o Mike Fitzgerald, 8364 College Road, Ullin, Il
62992