Atha Gray

Atha Lefler Gray, 87, of Kannapolis, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Carolina Caring Sherrills Ford Hospice House.

Atha was born December 6, 1938 in Concord to the late William Lee Lefler and the late Mary Linnie Ford Lefler. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, William Hector Gray, Sr.; sisters, Thelma Lefler Burris and Shirley Lefler Burris.

Atha retired after 25 years of service as a nurse assistant. She was a lifelong member of First Church of God in Concord, where she faithfully served as a member of the choir and enjoyed being part of the 55+ Club. She found great joy in camping, sewing, tending to her flower gardens, and listening to gospel music. A talented cook and gifted baker (especially her pumpkin cakes and coconut cakes), Atha lovingly shared her meals and treats with family and friends. She also loved shopping with Pam. Known for her kind and gentle spirit, she was the sweetest lady who never met a stranger and loved everyone she knew. Most of all, Atha was a loving wife, Mama, MawMaw, sister and aunt. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Survivors include daughter, Angela (Rick) Gray of Denton; daughter, Pam (Ron) Totherow of Kannapolis; son, Billy (Holly) Gray, Jr. of Concord; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Atha's services will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Rev. John Lindsay and Ron Totherow. Atha will lie-in-state one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at the West Concord Cemetery at 331 Union Cemetery Rd SW, Concord.

Memorials may be made to Carolina Caring Sherrills Ford Hospice House, 7473 Sherrills Ford Rd Suite A, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Gray family.