Patricia L. Gray

Patricia L. Gray, affectionately known as "Pat" and "Pippie" to those who knew her best, was born on February 7, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois to loving parents James and Rosemary Williams (both preceded her in death). Pat's journey was one of joy, service, and song until her peaceful passing on November 9, 2025. Leaving behind a legacy of kindness, friendship, and love, she remained a resident of Chicago throughout her life, touching the lives of many with her warm spirit and generous heart.
A graduate of Simeon Career Academy, Pat demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence throughout her professional career. She served with distinction at Illinois Bell, ABN AMRO, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her passion for helping others and her exceptional work ethic made her not just a colleague, but a friend to those she worked with.
As a member of the Women's Choir at the Apostolic Church of God, her voice uplifted many and contributed to the harmonic tapestry of the congregation. Pat's faith was her compass, guiding her through life trials and triumphs with unwavering strength. Pat's other interests were a reflection of her joyful and loving nature. She found pleasure in the simple things, like the laughter that filled the room during family game nights, the thrill of finding a good deal through her online shopping sprees, collecting angels and found comfort in watching her favorite classic TV shows and movies such as "Gunsmoke," "The Rifleman," and "The Color Purple." But the moments, shared with friends and family, were the ones she treasured most.
At home, Pat was the loving mother to Stephanie Gray Brand and cherished mother-in-law to Andrew Brand. Her family was the center of her universe, and she extended this love to her cousins Debra, Allen, Keith and Maurice Patterson, Barbara and Denise Tribble and Vanessa Gordon as well as a host of other family,friends and coworkers who were drawn to her generous spirit.
Described as kind, loving, and friendly, Pat's character was a true reflection of the words of American poet Maya Angelou, who said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Pat made everyone around her feel cherished and valued, and her memory will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.
As we celebrate the life of Patricia L. Gray, let us carry forward the values she lived by. Let us remember her not with tears, but with smiles for the happiness she spread, with warmth for the compassion she freely gave, and with admiration for the strength with which she faced each day. Patricia's life was a testament to the beauty of the human spirit, and her memory will continue to motivate and encourage us all to live with the same grace and kindness that she did every day.