Willie Jean England-Gray

England-Gray, Willie Jean of Park Hills, Missouri, was born January 29, 1946 in White Haven, Tennessee to James Willie and Velma (nee Scott) England and entered into rest Sunday, May 19, 2024 in St. Louis, Missouri at the age of 78 years. She is preceded in death by her parents; James Willie and Velma (nee Scott) England, her daughter; Rita Lee, and her siblings; John England, Lorees England-Kennedy, Cleora England-Alexander, Nedda England-Fealey, Betty Jo England-Hood, James England, and Terry England. She is survived by her brother; Eldon F. England, her children; Raymond (Margaret) Gray, Jr., Rachel (Russell) Haegele, Ronnie (Melissa) Gray, Rosanna Hemby, her twenty-three (23) grandchildren; her forty-three (43) great grandchildren; along with numerous other extended family and friends. Willie, a cherished mother, doting grandmother, great-grandmother, and beloved sister, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was a pillar of strength and love, deeply rooted in her Pentecostal faith, and a devoted member of her church community. Named after her father, a respected minister, Willie carried forward his legacy with grace and dedication. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and she found immense joy and comfort in her regular church attendance. Willie's greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She relished every moment with them, creating memories filled with love and laughter. As a dedicated caregiver in the healthcare industry, Willie was a loving mother figure to many of her younger patients, providing them with compassion and care that went beyond her professional duties. A woman of many talents, Willie loved crocheting and sewing, and her creations brought warmth and comfort to those around her. She was also an avid reader, finding solace and adventure in the pages of her favorite books. One of Willie's most treasured experiences was traveling to Mississippi with her family, where they enjoyed the soulful sounds of banjo picking and gospel music, celebrating their heritage and love for each other. Willie's life was a testament to love, faith, and devotion. She will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire those who knew her. Rest in peace, Willie. Your memory will forever be a blessing to us all. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at CHAPEL HILL MORTUARY, 6776 Vo-Tech Road, Bonne Terre, Missouri 63628. Funeral Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at 1:00 at Chapel Hill Mortuary in Bonne Terre, Missouri. Interment will immediately follow at St. Francois Memorial Park in Bonne Terre, Missouri. Family and friends can review and share stories, photos and condolences online at www.stlfuneral.com and follow details of this event and others in the community at www.facebook.com/stlchapelhill.

Willie Jean England-Gray

January 29, 1946 - May 19, 2024