The Excelsior Standard, Mar. 13, 2026

Sandra Gray

Sandra Kay Gray, 84, of Excelsior Springs passed away peacefully March 7, 2026, at Liberty Hospital. Born April 18, 1941, in Ray County, Sandra was the youngest of nine children of Reuben and Nora Shelton. Growing up with three brothers and five sisters, she was surrounded by a large, loving family. All of her siblings preceded her in death. She leaves behind nieces and nephews, who will forever cherish her memory. Sandra spent her entire life in the Excelsior Springs community she cherished. She attended Excelsior Springs schools and later began her working years at Whitaker Cable. Eventually, she found her calling in banking, beginning as a teller at Excelsior Trust Bank. Over the years, she became a familiar and friendly face at the drive-thru window, faithfully serving customers through numerous name changes until the branch closed. She retired from Bank of America, leaving behind many fond memories among coworkers and customers alike.

Outside of work, Sandra found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She loved tending to her flowers and working outdoors, creating small havens of color and peace around her home. Later in life, she discovered a talent for painting and grew into a skilled and expressive artist, adding yet another layer to her creativity and warmth.

Sandra married Richard Rogers on June 23, 1956. Together, they raised two daughters, Schranda (Bob) Griffin and Shelvina Turner.

In time, Sandra met and married Richard Gray before the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Shelvina on July 31, 1985. Through life’s joys and sorrows, Sandra remained strong.

Sandra’s legacy lives on through her loving family, which also includes her grandchildren, Julie (Alan) Propheter, Joshua (Samantha) Griffin, Jacob Griffin and Amy (Adam) Hall; seven great-grandchildren; and six great-greatgrandchildren.

Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly through each generation she leaves behind.

Services will be held Saturday, March 14, at Hidden Valley Funeral Home, 5951 Missouri Highway 10, Excelsior Springs, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., followed by the funeral at 11. A graveside service will follow.

Sandra will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, resilience and the steadfast love she shared with her family. Her memory will forever remain a blessing.