Margaret Patricia "Patty" Hebler Gray, age 82, passed away Tuesday morning, September 16, 2025, at her residence, just hours after the death of her beloved husband of 59 years, Richard Zane Gray. The two spent a lifetime side by side, and it brings their family comfort to know they left this world together.
Patty was born and raised in Vicksburg, Mississippi, with loving parents and three protective brothers who were always looking out for her. She loved sharing funny stories about her brothers, whom she adored, and she carried that same love and laughter into the lives of her children and grandchildren.
She attended St. Francis Xavier Academy from elementary school through high school (Class of 1961) and later earned her master's degree in speech pathology from the University of Southern Mississippi. Patty maintained close relationships with her friends from both St. Francis and Southern Miss, and she treasured those friendships throughout her life. Reunions and vacations with these dear friends were among some of her happiest memories.
Patty began her career as a speech pathologist at the Children's Hospital in New Orleans, where she met Richard. After moving to Corpus Christi, she continued her work at a speech and hearing center before focusing on raising their daughters. Over the years, she followed Richard during his career across the country and eventually went overseas to London, where the family lived for several years. She loved the adventure of British living. Patty and Richard enjoyed traveling together across Europe and even to Egypt. When the family eventually settled in Houston, she worked off and on in the public school system as a speech pathologist while always keeping her daughters at the center of her life.
Patty was her daughters' biggest supporter, cheering them on in everything they did. That same love and encouragement continued with her grandchildren, who were the light of her life and her greatest joy. She treasured every moment with them-celebrating milestones, sharing laughter, and simply being present-and they loved her just as deeply. To them, she was more than a grandmother; she was a constant source of love, laughter, and encouragement, and her impact on their lives will remain forever.
Patty is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard, and is survived by their two daughters, Daphne Gray Sampite and Nancy Gray; five grandchildren, Michael Sampite, Ryan Sampite, Zane Dufour, Aidan Dufour, and Riley Dufour; one brother, Thomas Michael Hebler; and extended family who will hold her memory close in their hearts. Richard and Patty's life together was filled with laughter, devotion, and love. They left this world only hours apart, a true reflection of how strong their bond was. Together, they built a family and a love that will live on.
Patty will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, her zest for life, and the kindness she showed to everyone she met. She was truly beautiful inside and out. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.
Picture of Patty and I at St. Paul Catholic Church during high school days. She was in my sister, Laura Love Ables' Class of 1961.
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