Helen T Gray

Helen T. Gray passed away on November 11, 2023, at the age of 81. She was born on July
2, 1942, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to her parents William and Cynthia Gott. She went to many
schools in different states, as her father was an Army officer. However, in college, she attended
Syracuse University and was also privileged to have been accepted as an Italian exchange
student and travel Europe before graduating with degrees in Journalism and Political Science.
Helen later earned her master’s degree in International Studies from Columbia University in
New York City.
She was the first black reporter for The Kansas City Star and later became the religious editor
for more than four decades. Helen was a devout Christian who attended Pleasant Green Baptist
Church as the former first lady of the church. She had a strong passion for leading souls to
Christ during her tenure. Helen is preceded in death by her parents, William and Cynthia, and
her husband, Rev. David L. Gray, Sr.
She is survived by her loving brother, Ron Gott and her son, David Lee Gray, Jr., several nieces,
nephews, cousins and godchildren.
Services for Helen T. Gray will be held on Monday, December 4, 2023, at Pleasant Green
Baptist Church at 340 David L. Gray Drive. KCKs. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m,
followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
Monetary donations, flowers, and cards may be sent to:
Thatcher Funeral Home at 1520 N. 5th St. KCKs 66101.

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