Patricia (Pat) Dierdra (Dee) Gray
Mom was always seeking joy and happiness, and looking for ways to better herself, always looking for acceptance and forgiveness
Born in Penfield, New York, on January 13, 1948, to Mary and Charles Schaufelberger, she lived a life that was a vibrant tapestry of color, music, and a deep, enduring love for the world’s beauty. From her high school days alongside her lifelong friend, Susan Dayton, she carried the free-spirited soul of a hippie, forever remembered for her long black hair and a heart that beat to the rhythm of the 1970s. Her life was soundtracked by the voices of Janis Joplin, The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, and Elvis. She found a piece of her soul in the lyrics of "Get Together" and "Achy Breaky Heart," and she never lost her admiration for the iconic style of David Bowie and Mick Jagger.
Her world was painted in cherished shades of yellow, purple, and pink. She found grace in almost every flower that bloomed, though she favored Lillies. Even as the years turned to gold, she moved through the world with dignity, finding confidence in her makeup and the simple joy of dressing up to feel her best. She delighted in sharing meals, whether it was the comfort of Chinese food—savoring egg foo young, chicken chow mein, shrimp toast, and sweet and sour chicken—or the smoky flavor of meat fresh off the grill, always making sure to praise the cooking of her son, Shane and Daughter Lisa.
Her journey led her through many landscapes, from the hills of New York to the shores of California, and through Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas. In the late 1980s, she moved from New York to Conroe, Texas. While she often carried a quiet longing for New York, she certainly did not miss the snow; yet, of all her travels, her heart truly ached for the California she left behind. Throughout her professional life, she gave her time and dedication to church Daycares, Gillette, and Nutri System.
It was during her time at Railway Signals that fate stepped in. There, she met David Gray. Though he was her boss and humorously persistent—teasingly telling her a date was a requirement of the job—their connection grew into the greatest love of her life. They began their journey together when her child was only three years old. David, a retired tool and die maker from Kodak, remained her anchor. She weathered the profound heartache of his passing on April 13, 2000, and never truly got over the loss of her beloved "Dad," nor the loss of her dear parents.
In her later years, she walked a path of quiet reflection. Though she sometimes felt the sting of loneliness and the weight of past regrets, she remained a woman of immense wisdom, intelligence, and a wonderfully warped sense of humor that could brighten any day. She held her head high, staying connected to those she loved through the modern magic of heartfelt GIFs and funny emojis. She found joy in swapping recipes, watching documentaries, and keeping up with the news, though she had no room in her heart for politics. She loved the stories found in YouTube videos, Korean soap operas, and films like *Forrest Gump*, *Avatar*, *Stepmom*, and *Terms of Endearment*.I can remember watching fantasy island, ans episodes oof dallas with mo growing up.
She is survived by her four children, Lisa, Kelly, Shannon, and Shane; her many grandchildren, Zachary, Taylor, Kris Jr., Alan, Destiny, Tyanna, and Tiffany; her three brothers, Charlie, Paul, and Mark; and her sister, Marybeth. She also leaves behind many dear friends, including Crystal Beasley and Susan Dayton.
Not a day will go by that you will not be missed; we love you, Mom. You are forever on our minds and in our hearts until we meet again in heaven. We know David is embracing you in his arms even now. Spread your beautiful wings and soar high, Mom; you are at peace. We light a candle in your honor.
Those who wish to honor Patricia (Pat)'s memory are invited to .
