HEATHSVILLE—It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diane E. Gray, 87, of Heathsville on February 18, 2025. She died peacefully at home.
Diane was born in Erie, Pennsylvania. In 1944, her family moved to Richmond, where she met her future husband, Robert “Bob” Gray, while attending John Marshall High School. They married in 1956 and made their home in Richmond.
Diane began her career in accounting at Southern States and later worked for many years with Ralph Amernick Accountants. In 1990, she moved with her husband to Springfield, where he served as the general manager of Service Neon Signs Company. Diane continued to work alongside her husband in the same office as the comptroller until her retirement in 2004.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Blanche Ellsworth; and her brother, Thomas Ellsworth.
Diane is survived by her husband of 68 years; two children, Cynthia Ferrell (Rick) and Robert Gray Jr. (Linda); and three grandchildren, Richard Ferrell Jr., Katie Ferrell and Erin Gray.
Diane was active in two Baptist churches before moving to Heathsville. She loved participating in mission work at each church and served as the director of missions in both. After her retirement, she continued her mission work at Kilmarnock Baptist Church in Kilmarnock, where she also taught a women’s class and enjoyed singing in the choir.
In addition to her church activities, Diane had a passion for working with flowers and their arrangements. She also volunteered as a docent at the Reedville Fisherman’s Museum.
Her life will be celebrated at 11 a.m. March 7 at Kilmarnock Baptist Church, 65 East Church Street, Kilmarnock. A luncheon will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Diane’s memory may be made to Kilmarnock Baptist Church for their “Mission Fund” or “Choir Fund,” which she cherished.
