Marion Wayne "Dewayne" Gray

In Loving Memory of Dewayne Gray
 
 Dewayne Gray, a beloved member of the community, passed away on March 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on September 5, 1966, Dewayne lived a fulfilling life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
 
 Family was at the heart of Dewayne's world. He leaves behind the great love of his life, his wife, Francy Gray, and their two children, David Giraldo and Maria Camila Sanchez, both of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. His loving mother, Linda Folsom, of Delight, Arkansas. His mother-in-law, Mrs. Hilda De Sanchez. He is also survived by his dear sister, Michelle, and her husband, Kevin Smead, of Glenwood, Arkansas. His nephews, Haddon Smead of Glenwood, Arkansas, and Matthew Gray of New Hampshire, and two nieces, Danielle Carpenter, and husband, Mark, of Orange Massachusetts and Brady Rose Clark of New Braunfels, Texas, that held a special place in his heart. He leaves behind a large and loving extended family, including numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, as well as cherished Uncles and Aunts.

Dewayne was preceded in death by his father Robert Wayne Gray, of Murfreesboro, and his brother, Robert Machemer-Gray of Townsend, Massachusetts. His maternal grandparents, Ruth and Imon Folson of Delight, Arkansas and his paternal grandparents, Jack Gray and Laverne Gray-Cook, and Step-Grandfather Roy Cook, all of Murfreesboro, Arkansas. His Father-in-law, Aldives Sanchez of Columbia.

Dewayne was a man of many talents and passions. As a resident of the countryside, he found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of rural life. He and his wife are the proud owners of a business that encompassed both a charming gift shop, Hawkins Variety Store, and Southern Specialties, a reputable fine-jewelry store, that imports emeralds. His dedication and hard work were evident in the success of his endeavors.

Dewayne had a zest for life and a passion for adventure. He loved to explore new places, indulge in culinary delights, and spend leisurely days on the family farm. His faithful companion, Leo, a cherished Pitbull, was often by his side, providing companionship and unconditional love.
 
 A kind and generous soul, Dewayne was known for his compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his community. Dewayne was very enthusiastic about the Pike County Archives and Historical Society, where he served as one of the fore founders and the first President of the society. He touched the lives of many with his warmth and generosity, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
 
 His family finds great solace in knowing that though he is absent from the body, he

is present with the Lord and that his kindness and compassion will live on in the hearts of those he touched. While his passing leaves a void which cannot be filled, his life leaves memories which will never be forgotten.
 
 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Pike County Archives and Historical Society located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. ( P.O. Box 875, Murfreesboro, Arkansas 71958)
 
 A celebration of Dewayne's life will be held on March 21, 2024 at 2:00 P.M., located at the Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville, Arkansas . Graveside services will follow at Delight cemetery in Delight, Arkansas. Kevin Smead will be officiating.

Visitation will be on March 20, 2024, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., located at the Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville, Arkansas.

You may send an online sympathy message at www.latimerfuneralhome.com