Leota Dean Gray, née Grace, died on September 16, 2026, in Glenpool, Oklahoma, at the age of 87.

Born on May 12, 1939, in Ofuskee county, Oklahoma, Leota built a life marked by faith, learning, and service to others. Growing up the oldest of six children, she lived in Phillips, TX and Okemah, OK and her close family ties included her immediate family as well as her aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. A gathering of this group in later years brought hours of reminiscing, storytelling, and laughter.

She attended the University of Oklahoma and went on to teach history, a subject she dearly loved, in Bartlesville Public Schools from 1961 to 1963 and again from the 1970s through the 1990s. Her dedication to education reflected a lasting commitment to sharing knowledge and encouraging others through the study of the past.

She married John Richard Gray in 1961and they were a devoted couple for 57 years. They raised two children, Erin and Scott. During this time, Leota volunteered with the Girl Scouts leading Troop 50, helping with a brownie troop, and with her children's elementary school. As a member of Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, she volunteered with children's ministry for many years.

Her faith was a central part of her life. Leota was a member of First Presbyterian Church and enjoyed being a member of Presbyterian Women, book clubs, and numerous Bible studies. She had a very strong faith and helped others by relying on biblical wisdom and the teachings of Christ.

Beyond her work and church life, Leota enjoyed reading, gardening and garden club, travel, and volunteering at local non-profits. These interests, together with her devotion to her church, formed an important part of the life she lived.

Leota was the daughter of Alice (née Jordan) and Harold Grace. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Bobby Grace and Bill Grace; and her sister, Virginia Kemp. She is remembered by her daughter, Erin Sorrels (Travis); her son, Scott Gray (Meredith); her grandson, Gilligan; her sister, Helen Hays (Tom); her brother, Stephen Grace (Terri); and double-cousin, Elaine Keesee (Don).

Those who knew Leota often found an immediate warmth in her presence. It was said that anyone who met her instantly liked her, and that if she was your friend, you truly had a forever friend. Her life will be remembered with gratitude by all who knew her.

A Memorial Service will be held on October 20, 2026, at 02:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church 505 S Dewey Ave, Bartlesville, OK 74003.

Donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation For Parkinson's Research are gratefully appreciated.