Sandra Davidson Gray

Services Celebrating the life of Mrs. Sandra Davidson Gray will begin at 12:00 PM Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home in Meridian, Mississippi with Brother Kenneth Murray and Brother Dennis Coats officiating.  Private Graveside Interment rites will follow at Archusa Memorial Gardens in Quitman, Mississippi.  Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.

Sandra Davidson Gray was born into her earthly life on May 28, 1950, to Alton Ray Cecil and Birdie Jean Ford Davidson of Quitman, Mississippi.  She entered into the gates of heaven on September 22, 2024, from her home in Causeyville, Mississippi surrounded by her family.

Throughout her life, she enjoyed numerous careers and hobbies.  Her talent for cooking led her to build several successful businesses, including restaurants, catering services, and commercial food presentations for publications in Mississippi and Alabama.  She had a special talent and gift that served her well in these endeavors, which was her love for people and she had a knack for never meeting a stranger.

She was proud to have retired from the Department of Commerce where she worked for the U.S. Census Bureau in Alabama.  Her favorite hobbies included volunteer work, travelling, and antiquing.

Sandra was a beloved mother.  She was preceded in death by William “Bill” Shirley, Sr., the father of their two sons.  She was also preceded by her late husband, Dennis “Sonny” Gray of Philadelphia, Mississippi.

Sandra is survived by her sons, William Shirley (Benita) of Quitman, Mississippi and Ben Shirley (Hermalinda) of Meridian, Mississippi.  Her greatest pride and joy were her four granddaughters: Kristan Kelly (Daniel) of Meridian, Mississippi, Kaylin Wheat (Bo) of Columbus, Mississippi, Klaire Shirley (fiancé Logan) of Shubuta, Mississippi, and Lauren Clay Shirley of Meridian, Mississippi.  She was also blessed with two great-grandsons, Myles and Mace Kelly of Meridian, Mississippi.

Sandra leaves behind three sisters and two brothers, Shirley Kennedy (Jimmy), Martin Davidson (Pat), Sarah Davidson, Cecil Davidson (Sandy), and Deborah Keen (Skip); along with many cherished nieces and nephews.  She also leaves behind her chosen sister and dearest lifelong and special friend, Opal Davidson Bush, who tirelessly devoted her life to caring for Sandra during her final battle with pancreatic cancer.  Sandra also leaves behind a community of friends and her cherished church family.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, Sandra’s family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the arms of her Savior.

Mrs. Gray’s Family would like to express special gratitude to Baptist Anderson Regional Cancer Center, Dr. Cassell and his staff, and Hospice Compassus for their exceptional care.

Pallbearers are Ryan Kennedy, Gary Davidson, Daniel Kelly, Bo Wheat, Logan Griffin, and Matt Clinard.  Honorary pallbearers are Bob Bethea, Harold Harper, and Ken Bush.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Snell Church of God of the Snell Community or The Gideons International.

Mrs. Sandra’s Family would like to invite friends and family to continue celebrating by joining for a meal following the services at The Family Fish Camp, located at 5381 Causeyville Vimville Rd. Meridian, MS 39301.

The Gray Family will receive guests from 10:00 AM until 11:45 AM prior to funeral rites in the chapel.