Leslie M. Gray

Leslie Maria Gray was born to David and Sadie Gray on December 17, 1961, in the Bronx, New York. She was the youngest of seven girls: Arlene Yvonne, Valerie, Linda, Deborah, Dorine, Leonora, and Davina.

One of Leslie's greatest and proudest achievements was her graduation from St. Catherine's High School in 1979, where she excelled both athletically and academically. Known for her natural gift with mathematics, she nurtured her love for numbers by pursuing an A.A. in Accounting from Sacramento City College.

Not only was she smart, sporty, and driven, but Leslie was also a talented craftswoman — exceptionally skilled with her hands. She expressed her creativity through quilting, sewing, and a variety of projects, each completed with impressive care, detail, and precision. However, to know Leslie is to know that her favorite way to express her creativity was wrapped in her love for children. She shared that joy by leading weekend workshops at Lowe's, teaching kids how to build, paint, and create with their hands, always encouraging them to be proud of themselves and excited to try new things. Leslie went on to develop Creative Crafts with Leslie, expanding into sewing and art-based projects — from picture frames and figurines to miniature planters and handcrafted keepsakes — each activity designed to spark imagination and teach useful skills like sewing, creating, and growing. Her joy for teaching continued in the classroom, where she served as a kindergarten aide at All Saints. Leslie approached her role with warmth, care, and dedication, cherishing her position and finding purpose and fulfillment in helping young children in their earliest steps of learning.

Leslie's heart for giving extended well beyond her classroom or craft table. She made blankets for the homeless and sewed for her church community. She delighted in making backpacks and purses for the little ones she encountered; she always seemed to have a gift ready, a small creation made with love and thoughtfulness, bringing smiles wherever she went. She also volunteered as a designated driver through local programs, ensuring others made it home safely. Another quiet reflection of her selflessness and care for those around her.

She loved her family and community, and wherever she went, she made genuine, meaningful connections. While employed with Circuit City, Leslie joined the company's softball team as a star player with the Circuit Breakers, bringing her trademark enthusiasm and team spirit to the field. She was also deeply involved in her church family, joining groups and organizations such as the Peacemakers Quilters Guild, Crazy Quilters, the Women's Council, and her beloved Busy Bees. Beyond those communities, Leslie was an exclusive member of the Three Musketeers, alongside April and Teresa — a cherished sisterhood bound by love, laughter, and an unbreakable bond that filled her with life, light, and joy. Among that sisterhood was Teresa's husband, affectionately known to Leslie as "My Bob". He held a special place in her heart,  a true brother and friend whose kindness, humor, and steady presence meant the world to her.

A New York Yankees fan through and through, Leslie loved baseball, swimming, and The Wizard of Oz. She was the expert on all things Oz. Her eyes would light up at the very mention of it. It was simply understood that if you ever saw anything related to The Wizard of Oz, you either bought it for her, snapped a picture, or had to call and fill her in. As Leslie would say, "No ifs, ands, or buts about it."

Leslie had an undeniable spark. She was clever and sharp-witted — a giver in the purest and truest sense of the word, extending her time, space, and energy if it meant easing the load of someone in need. No matter what she had, she gave.

Leslie Maria Gray is survived by her sisters, Leonora and Davina Gray, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who became family over the years. Her heart, her laugh, her youthful spirit, and her devotion to her family and community will forever be remembered. Her well-lived wisdom, comforting words, and steady love will forever be woven into the hearts of all who knew her.

A viewing will be held from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5004 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025 at St. John Catholic Church, 813 W. Nine Mile Road, Highland Springs, VA. 

Services of comfort are being provided by Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5004 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA.