Jane Sparks Gray (Janie)

Mrs. Jane Sparks Gray (Janie), 84, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 20, 2025. She was born in Yadkin County on June 25, 1940 to Reece Sparks and Lois Sparks. 

She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Lester P. Gray of Hamptonville; two loving daughters, Sherry Oliver and husband, Neal of Hamptonville, and Sandra Stinson and husband, Edwin of Sherrills Ford; grandchildren, Hayley Oliver Bender and husband, Tim of Huntersville, Gretchen Oliver Riddle and husband, Clint of Huntersville, Katie Stinson Berting and husband, Shawn of Huntersville, and Abbie Stinson Coones and husband, Toby of Davidson; and great-grandchildren, Everett Bender, Landry Bender, Hattie Jo Bender, Aniston Riddle, Stinson Berting, Charlie Kate Berting, and Turner Berting.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Barbara Pinnix and Sue Greene.

Janie was one of a kind – loving, caring, and full of joy. Her quick wit and laughter brightened the lives of those around her. She poured her heart into her family, never missing a gathering, sporting event, or performance, no matter how small. She believed that being present was the greatest way to show love, and she lived that truth every day. She was the kind of person who never arrived empty-handed – whether it was a family get-together, a church event, or a simple visit with friends, she always had something homemade and delicious to share. For her, food was love, and she delighted in making sure everyone was well-fed and cared for.

Janie spent many years managing the jewelry department at Brendle’s Wholesale in Elkin. Her sparkling personality fit in well with the diamonds and gold she worked with daily. While there she formed close rings of friendships that lasted her lifetime.

Later, she brought her warmth and love for cooking to Starmount High School, where she worked in the cafeteria. Her recipes were known and loved by all, and she found joy in sharing them with others. 

Her own life’s recipe was one of happiness, joy, and laughter. It might look something like this:

• -Preheat oven on June 25, 1940
• -Add Lester Gray and slow cook for 69 years until tender and inseparable
• -Fold in daughters, Sherry and Sandra, then sprinkle with husbands, Neal and Edwin, for extra richness
• -Add 4 TBS. of granddaughters, Hayley, Gretchen, Katie, and Abbie each spiced up with their own flavors (Tim, Clint, Shawn, and Toby)
• -Let simmer until bold and flavorful
• -Add a dash of great-grand zest. Stir in Everett, Landry, Hattie Jo, and Aniston. Spoon in Stinson, Charlie Kate, and Turner for a burst of youthful sweetness.
• -Season with daily doses of breakfast and dinner at Debbie’s Snack Bar and mix with friends and laughter
• -Knead in Mountain View Baptist Church faithfulness
• -Add a splash of summer pool fun
• -Tenderize with care and love until softened
• -Bake until February 20, 2025
• -Serve this heavenly dish to friends and family with love
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A celebration of Janie’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Mountain View Baptist Church with Pastor David Childress officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the church. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made in Janie’s memory to Mountain View Baptist Church. The family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to Janie’s caregiver, Hazel Harris, for the loving and compassionate care given to her over the last few years. Gentry Family Funeral Service of Yadkinville is serving the Gray family.