Lillie Mae Gray

Lillie Mae Cheatham Gray, age 77, received her wings from the Lord on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. She was born on August 31, 1948, in Greenville, Alabama, raised in Dayton, Ohio to the late Steinhart Cheatham and Arde Staley.

Lillie was a proud graduate of Roosevelt High School, Class of 1966, and a beloved member of the Vantastic Van Club. She retired after many dedicated years of service with the Montgomery County Board of MRDD, where she touched countless lives through her compassion and care. Known for her giving heart, Lillie was a cornerstone of her neighborhood for over 40 years, helping to raise and guide many children beyond her own family. Her kindness, strength, and wisdom will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Along with her parents, Lillie was also preceded in death by her brother, Willie Cheatham.

Lillie is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, James L. Gray; loving children, Rhonda (Lorenzo) Townsend, Kesha (Jerry) Pierce, and James Stanley (LaShonya) Ensley; cherished bonus daughters, Letitia Lasley and Marilyn White; brother, Anthony Jones; sisters, Burnett Cheatham, Zobia Sally, and Brenda Tucker; devoted sister friend Denese Cordell. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren, Cordell, Ja'Veon, Khiry, De'Quan, Ronesha, Journey, Kiley, Brittany, Ahjahnee, Summer, Euri, Qui'Nesha, Jerrin, and Nyjil; along with 15 great-grandchildren.

Graveside services 11 am Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at West Memory Gardens, 6722 Hemple Rd., Moraine, Ohio.  At family’s request, please arrive at cemetery by 10:45 am. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.

Her love and light will continue to shine through every life she touched.

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