Barbara Gray

Barbara Ann Bates Gray, 82, of Clyde, died Saturday, April 29, 2023 at home surrounded by her family after a short illness.

Barb was born on August 12, 1940, to the late Louis and Martha Bates in Port Huron, MI. After graduating from St. Stephen High School in 1958, she began working as a secretary at Prestolite Wire Corp, where she met her husband, Lester “Bud” Gray. They were married on April 28, 1962, and were each other’s lifetime companions and friends. He preceded her in death on December 4, 2022 after 60 years of marriage.

Barb was a devoted wife and generous, loving, and kind mother and grandmother. She was the foundation of her family. Barb was happiest when surrounded by her loved ones and enjoyed hosting Sunday dinners for her daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. She was an exceptional cook, and her homemade spaghetti, baked beans, pork roast, and pasta salad were family favorites.

Barb was a lifetime member of St. Stephen Church, where she taught fourth-grade catechism for many years. She also enjoyed reading and crossword puzzles. She was a thoughtful gift-giver and never missed a special date or occasion.

Though Barb endured health issues for many years, few people knew how much she struggled. Her joy for life and love for her family kept her pushing through the pain.

She is survived by her daughters Linda (Pat) McGrath, Julie (Mark) VanBuskirk, and Lisa (Paul) Steinborn; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and her beloved feline companion Blackie. Also surviving is a brother, Robert (Mary) Bates, a sister Diane (Bernard) Ruhlman, and many nieces and nephews. Barb was preceded in death by an infant daughter.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home. A Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish St. Stephen Catholic Church with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. The Reverend Bradley Forintos will officiate.

Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Donations may be made to Visiting Nurse Association & Blue Water Hospice, Blue Water Area Humane Society, and Holy Trinity Parish.

To send condolences, visit karrersimpson.com