Kathryn Gail Gray

Kathryn Gail Gray (nee Neal), age 75, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the city where she was born and spent much of her life. Born on January 23, 1950, in the Dawson area of Tulsa, Kathryn was the daughter of William "Gib" Neal and Betty Jo Neal. She grew up alongside her brothers David and Everett, forming bonds that would shape her lifelong values of kindness and connection. A proud graduate of Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, she went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Kathryn dedicated her professional life to education, teaching primarily third and fourth grade students across various elementary schools. Her passion for nurturing young minds extended beyond traditional classrooms-during a break from elementary teaching, she worked with the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) and Community Action Project (CAP), guiding adults through GED preparation and job skills training. She later returned to elementary education at Keystone Elementary School, where she completed her career before retiring. Kathryn found great joy in running into former students-her "kids"-who never failed to greet her with a smile and a hug. She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Wayne Gray; their three children: Amy Gray; Becky Gray Byers and her husband Joe; and Brian Gray and his wife Stacy. Kathryn was a proud grandmother to Sierra Gray, Hudson Byers, Alex Byers, and Malachi Gray; and a loving great-grandmother to Bentley and Wilder. She also leaves behind her brother David Neal and his wife Bal. Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, William "Gib" Neal and Betty Jo Neal; as well as her brother Everett Neal. Beyond the classroom and family life, Kathryn had a vibrant personality that shone through in her hobbies. She was an avid collector of vintage cookie jars and pottery-especially character-themed jars-which she proudly displayed throughout her home. Visitors who showed even the slightest interest were treated to enthusiastic tours of her cherished collection. A loyal Oklahoma State Cowboys fan, Kathryn especially enjoyed watching basketball games on television. Though she once claimed not to be much of a sports enthusiast, that changed when her daughters became passionate fans themselves. Amy often served as Kathryn's personal interpreter during games so she could follow every play with excitement. Kathryn will be remembered as a kind and generous soul who welcomed everyone with warmth and acceptance. Her love for her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren-and all the students whose lives she touched-was unwavering. She embraced each role in life with pride: Mom, MawMaw, teacher, friend. A Memorial Gathering will be held on December 13, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM at Moore Funeral Home - Southlawn Chapel 9350 E. 51st. St. It will be a gathering of family and friends to celebrate the life of our Mom, Kathryn. Come with stories and pictures that you want to share of Mom.

Kathryn Gail Gray

January 23, 1950 - November 29, 2025