Joyce Elizabeth Dean Gray

Memorial services for Joyce Elizabeth Dean Gray, 87, of Lufkin, will be held Thursday, July 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Henderson Chapel of First United Methodist Church Lufkin with Dr. Robert Shield officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Carroway Funeral Home.

Joyce was born December 15, 1938 in Kilgore, Texas and was raised in a loving, Christian home by the late Albert Ray Dean and Tommie Elizabeth (Hudson). Joyce passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026 at Hospice in the Pines.

Although an only child, Joyce cherished her formative years in the close-knit oilfield community of Laird Hill. She attended Leverett’s Chapel School and filled her days with music lessons under the renowned Mrs. Cleburne, expression lessons, and active participation in church activities. These early experiences fostered a lifelong love of learning, faith, and fellowship.

Joyce later attended Kilgore High School, where she formed many lasting friendships that remained dear to her throughout her life. After graduation, she enrolled at the University of North Texas, where she became a proud member of Chi Omega Sorority and served as chapter president. Known for her remarkable work ethic, Joyce graduated early while maintaining employment at Bill Utter Ford. Her university years provided countless treasured memories and lifelong friendships with her beloved sorority sisters.

Following college, Joyce moved to Longview to begin her student-teaching. There, fate intervened when fellow educator Jim Gray asked her supervising teacher if Joyce might join him for lunch. Their connection was immediate, and their courtship culminated in marriage on April 2, 1960.

Together, Joyce and Jim built a life centered on faith, family, and service. They welcomed their son, James Edward Gray Jr. (“Eddie”), and later moved to Lufkin, where they established their home and became deeply rooted in the community. Lufkin remained Joyce’s beloved home for the rest of her life.

As an educator, Joyce touched the lives of countless students through her work at Lufkin High School and Angelina College. With characteristic determination and a strong work ethic, she earned her MBA from Stephen F. Austin State University while balancing her responsibilities as a teacher, mother, and coach’s wife. A breast cancer survivor, Joyce faced life's challenges with resilience, grace, and unwavering faith, inspiring those around her through her strength and perseverance.

In retirement, Joyce devoted herself to serving her community, spending time with her grandchildren, and sharing her gifts in the kitchen. She was especially known for delivering homemade sourdough bread and fig preserves to friends, neighbors, and acquaintances throughout the week. Among life's simple pleasures, Joyce especially enjoyed shopping, all things red, fresh strawberries, and keeping up with current events and celebrity news through People magazine.

A faithful member of First United Methodist Church Lufkin, Joyce placed her church at the center of her life. She served in numerous ministries, including Vacation Bible School, Children’s Sunday School, and Old Bethlehem. She sang in the choir, volunteered in the church office, and was an active member of both the Musslewhite Sunday School Class and later the Second Mile Sunday School Class.

Joyce leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory. Joyce is survived by her daughter-in-law, Kristen Maurstad Gray of Carrollton; grandson, Joel Edward Gray and wife Courtney of Houston; granddaughter, Mari Ingrid Gray of Houston; and great-grandchildren, Benjamin James Gray and Charlotte Ruth Gray of Houston.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James “Jim” Gray; her son, Eddie Gray; and her grandson, Evan Quinn Gray.

In lieu of customary remembrance, the family requests with gratitude memorial contributions to First United Methodist Church, 805 E. Denman Avenue, Lufkin, Texas 75901.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Joyce's friends and neighbors, as well as to the PineCrest Home Health staff, especially Angel and Jasmine, for their kindness, friendship, and attentive care. Special thanks are also extended to Hospice in the Pines, particularly Justina, for the compassionate support and comfort provided during Joyce's final days. Their dedication brought peace to Joyce and great comfort to her family and will be remembered with deep appreciation.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.