Beloved wife, mother, Nana, and faithful servant of Jesus Christ, Deborah "Debbie" Louise (Wallace) Gray went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 27, at the age of 73.

Debbie was born on March 19, 1952, in Rolla, Missouri, to William and Rowena Wallace. Raised in a ministry home rich with love and faith, she built her life on the foundation of following Jesus—something that guided her every step.

At just 17 years old, during a youth group meeting over Christmas break at First Assembly of God in St. James Debbie met the love of her life, Arthur "Duane" Gray. Their joyful courtship blossomed into a marriage on December 20, 1969. Together, Debbie and Duane built a life filled with laughter, devotion, and an unshakable faith in Christ.

Debbie was a devoted mother to their two sons, Anthony (Tony) and Christopher (Chris). She poured her heart into raising them—encouraging their passions, modeling faith, and teaching them the values of honesty, hard work, and kindness. One of her greatest joy came later as "Nana" to her grandchildren, who adored her deeply and knew her love beyond measure.

In 1973, Debbie began her lifelong ministry as the Children's Church Pastor at First Assembly of God in St. James. For decades, she faithfully taught children about the love of Jesus, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. Summers found her joyfully serving at Southern Missouri Kids Camp, where her passion for reaching the next generation shone brightly. Ministry was not just something she did—it was who she was.

Alongside her church service, Debbie and Duane owned and operated The Lord's Library in Rolla, a Christian bookstore. Debbie loved helping people discover resources that would strengthen their faith, resourcing churches with supplies, and finding just the right Bible, décor, or gift to brighten someone's home. The store was complete with a play Ark that became a favorite spot for kids to explore and enjoy while their families shopped.

Debbie loved family time, especially vacations to Branson and Gatlinburg, where lasting memories were made. At home, she enjoyed caring for her pets and had a special bond with her cat, Cindy Gray. She also loved collecting treasures—most notably Gingerbread men, Garfield memorabilia, and antiques.

Those who knew Debbie will remember her unwavering faith in God, her steady love for family, her passion to reach children with the gospel, and her gentle spirit that left a mark on everyone she met. Her legacy is one of faithfulness, integrity, and compassion.

Debbie is survived by her sons, Anthony (Tony) Gray and wife Erin of St. James, and Christopher (Chris) Gray and wife Angie of Sedalia; her grandchildren, Todd Gray (wife Keely), Dillon Gray, Chandler Gray (wife Peyton), Lauren Ferris (husband Cooper), Bekah Pennock (husband Christian), Bailey Bassett (husband Jaedon), Addi Engelage, Chloe Engelage, and Elliot Gray; as well as many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Arthur "Duane" Gray, her parents, William and Rowena Wallace, and her brother, David Wallace.

The family deeply appreciates the prayers and support given to Debbie and her family throughout her journey. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to BGMC (Boys & Girls Missionary Challenge) – Honduras Project.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, October 2, at 6:00 p.m. at Jones Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m.

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.