Althea Georgie Gray

Althea Georgie Gauldin Blakely Gray age 97 of Rison, formerly of Fordyce, passed from this world on January 13, 2011 at the Green House Cottages of Southern Hills Nursing Home in Rison. She was born December 28, 1913, in Baskin, Louisiana, a daughter of the late George and Althea Chandler Gauldin. During her childhood, her family moved to Fordyce, Arkansas, where Georgie made her lifelong home. Mrs. Gray was the widow of Lemuel Blakely of Fordyce. He joined the Navy during World War II, and they lived for a short time in New York City. Upon returning to Fordyce, Lem became a local businessman and Georgie became a business woman in her own right, eventually owning and managing a title company until her retirement. After Lems passing, Georgie later married W. T. Dub Gray of Rison and they made their home in Fordyce until his passing in 1992. Mrs. Gray was a woman of grace and positive attitude. She participated in community activities and enjoyed social gatherings. For most of her life, she was an active member of First Baptist Church in Fordyce. Meticulous in dress and demeanor, she took pride in the people and things that she loved. Her legacy to all who knew her was her joy in life and remembering and relishing the things that make us happy. Whatever things are of good report, think therefore on these things. Philippians 4:8. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Autrey Mae Garrett, Gracie Glenn, Pearl Bates, Lavois Hubbard; Brothers, Clyde Gauldin, Corbett Gauldin and Perry Gauldin.

Mrs. Gray is survived by one step daughter, Mary Jane Hyatt of Pine Bluff; one step son, William R. Gray of Malvern; two brothers, Chandler Gauldin of Monroe, Louisiana, Tommy Gauldin of Ruston, Louisiana; one sister, Gloria Dean Milford of Lake Charles, Louisiana; six grandchildren; several great grandchildren.

Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 15, 2011 at Oakland Cemetery in Fordyce with Brother Wade Totty officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Buie Funeral Home of Rison (870)325-6216.