Wanda Delores Gray

Wanda Delores Gray, daughter of William and Sarah Olverson, was born on June 7, 1935. She peacefully departed this life on August 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Wanda attended Lockland Wayne High School, where she was a spirited cheerleader. It was there that she met the love of her life, George Gray, a standout player on the State Champion Lockland Wayne Panthers football team. Their high school romance blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on love, faith, and devotion. Before George’s passing, they shared an extraordinary 72 years of marriage, creating a legacy of unwavering commitment and countless cherished memories together.

Wanda was a dedicated and hardworking professional who held positions with Lincoln Heights School, Lincoln Heights Urban Renewal, and General Electric. Through her years of service, she earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues for her commitment and strong work ethic. Following a successful career, she retired from General Electric, where she had faithfully served for many years.

Wanda was a devoted woman of faith whose church service reflected her love for God and her community. She became a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church under the spiritual leadership of Dr. Otis Moss, Jr. Alongside her dear friends, Georgia Calhoun and Marion Jones, she helped establish the Usherette Ministry, which continues today as the Doorkeepers for Christ Ministry. Wanda was also a faithful participant in the annual Women’s Day Choir and generously volunteered in the Kitchen Ministry, serving families during funeral repasts and other church events. Later, she united with Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, where she continued to share her love of music and worship through her service in the choir.

Wanda had a passion for travel and cherished every opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. She enjoyed traveling with her dear friends in the Faithful Travelers Club, embarking on numerous vacations, excursions, and cruises throughout the years. Whether near or far, each journey brought her great joy. Wanda especially loved sharing stories of her adventures, recounting the people she met, the places she visited, and the unforgettable experiences she enjoyed along the way. Her enthusiasm for travel and storytelling brought smiles to all who listened.

Wanda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William Olverson and Sarah Olverson, as well as her cherished son, Eric Gray. Though they departed before her, their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Wanda leaves to cherish her loving memory three devoted children: George Bernard (Sherry) Gray of Texas, Dwan (Timothy) Moore and Gary (Kellie) Gray, both of Cincinnati, Ohio; and her beloved brother, James Leroy Olverson of Cincinnati, Ohio.

She was especially devoted to her grandchildren, whose daily stories, adventures and cherished moments brought her endless joy and laughter: Anthony (Danielle) Gray of California, Chaevon Gray and Timothy (Natasha) Moore, Jr. of Cincinnati, Ohio, Shameek (Michael) Jones of Texas, Marcus Moore, Gary Gray, Jr. and Kameron Gray, all of Cincinnati, Ohio.

In addition, Wanda is lovingly remembered by her great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives, and her sister-in-law, Jennifer Gray.

Wanda also leaves in cherished remembrance her dearest friends and longtime Pokeno partners, Georgia Calhoun, Marion Jones, and Maxine Stevenson. Their friendship spanned many years and was marked by love, loyalty, laughter, and unwavering support. Their close-knit circle eventually welcomed Wanda’s daughter as a member, making their bond even more special. Those who witnessed their friendship saw a beautiful example of genuine companionship and sisterhood. Wanda treasured these relationships, and the memories they created together will be forever cherished by all who knew them.

Wanda was known for her quick wit, warm spirit, and beautiful personality that could light up any room. Her infectious laughter, kind heart, and joyful presence left an impression on everyone she met. She touched countless lives through her love, friendship, faith, and devotion to family. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever be cherished, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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