Judy Eye Gray

Judy Eye Gray, 57, of the Hermitage community of Augusta County, passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at her home surrounded by family.

She was born in Augusta County, August 24, 1967, a daughter of the late Duaine “Bud” Judy and June Ola (Marrs) Eye. On May 17, 1997 Judy married Mark Alan Gray.

Judy grew up on her family’s poultry farm. She would eventually make her own family home there as well, where she would raise her two daughters. Before parenthood she spent time in Colorado Springs, Colorado, living out many adventures in her younger years. After returning home to Hermitage, she would meet her husband and future father of her daughters, Mark. Prior to starting their family together, Mark and Judy loved their adventures together, spending time four wheeling on beaches and attending Nascar races on the weekends when they could.

Family was always important, particularly time spent with her siblings, special cousins, and parents; they were a huge part of her support system. Additionally, Judy enjoyed her extensive work family while working at both AMC, as well as Hugh K. Cassell Elementary, where she worked in the cafeteria for 17 years. Just like her own kids, she loved her Cassell kiddos so much, and always said she would not want to work at any other school. In fact, Cassell Elementary was such a special place because of people like Judy and her coworkers who made it so. Being a Maw-Maw to Silas was one of her favorite “jobs” in life by far, especially watching him during his first six months. That time together was so special.

Judy was exceptional in so many facets of life, all while navigating serious life challenges that were thrown her way. Yet, she remained steadfast through it all and handled it all with grace. As a mother she was dedicated to Rachel’s basketball passion, taking her to countless practices and games and stepping up to be a girl scout troop leader for Kelly. Judy was a member of Hermitage Presbyterian Church, where she began as a child and would remain throughout her life, even attending virtually throughout hospice care. She always enjoyed helping out with Vacation Bible School and would often coordinate with family members to see that her nieces and nephews from Richmond were able to attend. Judy loved time spent with her best friend and sister, Karen, and together they enjoyed relaxing in the spa, shopping for crazy deals, or simply hanging out to watch their grandbabies together. And, it was one of her greatest privileges to have her sister live just down the road from her over the past few years. Additionally, it cannot go without mentioning how much she loved her daily cups of coffee, herbals, and loving on her dog, Lilly Bear. Judy always had a special furry friend in her life. Following her return from Colorado, it was her dog, Misty. When her kids were growing up it was Maggie May, and in the end Lilly Bear and Robert the Tortoise.

Judy will be greatly missed by all who had the chance to know her. She had a life-force like none other and unlikely to be replicated. She will be remembered as having made an impact on others’ lives wherever she went, whether she realized it or not.

In addition to her husband of 27 years, she is survived by her daughters, Rachel Judy Gray of Hermitage and Kelly Jo Gray of Mint Springs; grandson, Silas Tripp Blair of Mint Springs; brothers, Kenneth Eye of Hermitage, and Randy Eye of Richmond; sister, Karen E. Benson of Hermitage; as well as her faithful canine companion, Lilly Bear & beloved tortoise, Robert Dale.

A Celebration of Life will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Hermitage Presbyterian Church, 46 Hildebrand Church Road, Waynesboro, Va. 22980.

Following the service there will be a coffee and dessert reception held 2-4 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family at Mark Gray, 265 Coleytown Road, Waynesboro, Va. 22980 with funds to complete Judy’s final memorial spot on their property for Judy’s ashes to watch the sunrise and set each day.