Odis Gray of Blytheville

Odis Gray of Blytheville was born June 16, 1938, in Joiner to Sank Gray and Annie Mae Murlhearn. Odis was the youngest of five children and at an early age he lost both parents and was raised by his sister, Earnestine Collins. In 1955 at the age of 17, Odis enlisted in the United States Navy, serving during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, receiving the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (with three Bronze Stars), and the Vietnam Campaign Medal, retiring honorably in 1974. He was a successful entrepreneur owning and operating his own trucking company, a restaurant and night club in Memphis, Tenn., later working as a truck driver for Roseland Planting Company, in Blytheville, retiring at the age of 80.

Odis was an exceptional provider for his family, his children had his heart, loving each one dearly and giving them their own special nickname.

He came to Christ when he became ill and got up each morning praying and thanking the Lord, Jesus.

Odis was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Elisha Marshall and Dillard Marshall; sisters, Earnestine Collins and Charlie Mae McFarland; and a daughter, Gloria J. Kinnard. On Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022, Odis passed away in his home in Blytheville at the age of 84.

He leaves to cherish precious memories his beloved and faithful wife of 50 years, Bennie Mae Calhoun Gray of the home; his devoted children, Willie L. and Carol Gray, Theresia J. Lockett and Jeffrey L. Thomas; a beloved brother, Raymond and Vera Marshall; 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, Dec. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at McDonald-Horne Funeral Home, 1207 South Division, Blytheville.

Funeral services with military honors will be conducted Wednesday, Dec. 21, at 11 a.m. at the West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 4000 Forest Hill Irene Road in Memphis, Tenn. Dr. Charles E. Thomas, pastor of Gospel Temple Church of God in Christ, Blytheville, will deliver the eulogy with interment in the West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mhfuneralhomeinc. or visit us on Facebook at McDonald-Horne Funeral Home.

McDonald-Horne Funeral is in charge of all services and arrangements.