The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want.

On January 17, 2025, Rev. Lillie Mae Gray of Chesapeake, VA answered the Master's call with a smile and warm embrace. Rev. Gray was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother of five generations and also a special aunt. Rev. Gray was born on October 21, 1929, in Norfolk County to the late Ocie and Mary Tillett Lindsay. She was raised in Suffolk, VA by her Aunt Alice Tillett. She was a devoted Associate Minister at New Foreman Temple A.M.E. Zion Church and in the Virginia Annual Conference, Norfolk District, where she served faithfully during her golden years. She dedicated her life to serving others, lifting her family and community in prayer, and living out God's word with grace and humility.

Rev. Gray attended Cornland School in Chesapeake, VA, and furthered her education at the Technology Center, where she pursued a certificate in the medical field. Her career reflected her deep passion for caring for others. She worked at Jenkins Nursing Home, DePaul Hospital, the Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Autumn Care, and the Naval Hospital. Additionally, she served as a Domestic Engineer with Chesapeake Public Schools, earning respect for her dedication and work ethic. Known for her unwavering commitment and tireless efforts, she was a compassionate caregiver to many. Her selfless nature and strong work ethic left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

In her early years, she co-founded a prayer band, organizing meetings and going from house to house proclaiming the Word of God and winning souls for Christ. Under her leadership, many joined in and countless lives were saved. She remained devoted to praying for others throughout her life, continuing the ministry until her last days.

Rev. Gray, affectionately known as "Momma" by her family, was a loving and compassionate presence to all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Calvin Gray Sr., two daughters; Patricia Tillett, Connie Gray, three sisters; Dororthy Johnson, Thelma Lawrence, and Mary Livingston.

She leaves to cherish in her memory her five children, Thelma T. Rawls (Chesapeake, VA), Kay Brenda Wilson (Norfolk, VA), Jean Lee Griffin (Rev. Coston Griffin; Suffolk, VA), Calvin Gray Jr. (Chesapeake, VA), and Rev. Alvania Eason (Chesapeake, VA). She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Kennette Rawls, Latonya Walker, Tara Johnson-Porter, LeKeita Hall, Edwin Eason Jr., Jacquitta Toney, Conna Knight, Tiffany Smith, Devina Eason, Brea Wilson, Lamont Wilson, Antonio Wilson, Keon L. Rawls, Calvin Johnson Jr., Kia Howard, and Angel Eason. She also leaves behind 32 great-grandchildren, 15 great-great grandchildren, 6 great-great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 27, 2025, at New Foreman Temple AMEZ Church, 2313 Benefit Road, Chesapeake. Interment will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 3pm until 5pm Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake.

The funeral service may be viewed online at https://www.facebook.com/PretlowandSons