Virginia Gray

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Our mother, Virginia Lee Gray, went to be with the Lord on the morning of June 3, 2025.

She was born to Charles Leroy and Roberta (Weir) Radford on August 28, 1928, in Alba, MO. Virginia was raised on a farm East of Alba with her 6 siblings, which all have passed before her, Everett, Clifford, Dorris, Helen, Anna V. and Kathleen. Virginia graduated from Alba High School in 1946.

Virginia is survived by 3 children; Carolyn (Ron) Brenner of Goodyear, AZ., Gary (Cathy) Gray of Joplin, MO., Donna (Michael) David of Seneca, MO. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Virginia worked at Meekers Leather Company, Safeway Bakery, American Wafer Co. and Modine Manufacturing. She retired from Modine in 1986.

Virginia grew up in the Methodist Church in Alba. She and her sisters often sang there. It was there she met her future husband, Wilson. He had just returned from serving in World War II. Wilson’s father was the preacher for the church. Wilson and Virginia were married there on August 24, 1946. They made their home in Joplin and were married for 65 years until Wilson’s passing in 2011.

After retirement, Wilson and Virginia travelled a lot with Virginia’s sister, Helen and her husband Ed. Together they visited every state in the Union, except Alaska.

Virginia was a loving, hard working mother. She and Dad provided us with a loving, safe, happy Christian home. They were always there for us and loved us very much. We took many fun family vacations!

Virginia and Wilson were active members of Forest Park Baptist Church for over 40 years. The family would like to thank all of those who had a hand in her care over the last several years. Foxberry Memory Care, Joplin Gardens and Gentiva Hospice.







Virginia’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing this kind lady.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Forest Park Baptist Church in Joplin. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at the church.