Freda Gaye Gray, 95, formerly of Manila, Arkansas passed from this life on October 9th, 2026 at her home on her family’s farm in Salem. Freda was born to the late Oscar Bryan “O.B” Wagner and Bertha Griffin Wagner on December 11th, 1930. While living in Salem, she attended Immanuel Baptist Church for many years.
In addition to her parents, Freda is preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Gray, three sons; Jerry, Perry, and Keith Gray (Jenny), and five brothers; Fred, Ralph, Dean, Wayne, and Don E. Wagner. She is survived by her brother Jim (Nancy) Wagner, her sister-in-laws; Charlotte and Tasha, her daughter-in-law Rebecca Gray, and her sister Linda Erney. She is also survived by her six grandchildren, JJ (Caitlin) Gray, Riley (Lilly) Gray, Natalie Gray, Lance Gray, Candy, and Amber, and many beloved great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Freda was a true example of hard work, dedication, and a love that was shown through everything she did. A hardworking farm wife, she spent countless years helping on the family farm, assisting with the operation of the family feed mill, and gathering eggs well into her 91st year of life. She never shied away from hard work and took great pride in doing her part to keep the family and farm going.
Her love for others was perhaps most evident in her kitchen, where there was always room for one more at the table. She lovingly prepared countless meals for her family, the farm workers, and anyone who happened to be hungry. To her, feeding others was more than a chore; it was an expression of love, kindness, and hospitality. Whether working in the fields, tending to the daily tasks of the farm, or preparing a warm meal for a hungry visitor, she gave of herself without hesitation. Her strong work ethic, generous heart, and willingness to care for others leave behind a lasting legacy of love, perseverance, and selflessness that will be cherished by all who knew her.
One of her greatest joys in life was the special bond she shared with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She helped raise her grandsons, JJ and Riley, and proudly attended their many ball games, cheering them on every step of the way. She cherished conversations with her granddaughter, Natalie, and enjoyed passing down her cooking knowledge and teaching her the skills she had perfected over a lifetime. She loved talking with her great-grandson, Jaxon, about farming and sports, sharing stories and wisdom from her many years of experience. She treasured the time she spent babysitting her great-granddaughter, Elizabeth, watching cartoons and reading books together. She also delighted in playing with her great-grandson, Wayne, and sneaking him little drinks of Pepsi when she could. She especially enjoyed visits with her twin great-grandsons, Remington and Roper, making memories and enjoying their time together. Each of these precious relationships held a special place in her heart, and the love, lessons, laughter, and memories she shared with them will live on for generations to come.
Private services ~ Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Baptist Health Medical Center or the Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.
