Jessie May Gray

Born on March 25, 1947, in Gadsden, Alabama, Jessie was the daughter of Theron and Foye Gray. She grew up with her beloved brothers, Donny and Lamar, and attended Etowah High School.

A devoted mother, she took great pride in raising her children—Tim, Sean, Sally, and Jefferey—with unwavering love and dedication.

Jessie lived in a number of places prior to coming here to Florida. She lived in the Detroit Metro Area of Michigan for a number of years, then moved to Wisconsin for a while, then to Colorado. In 1978, Jessie and her family moved to Florida, drawn by new job opportunities and the promise of a fresh start in the Sunshine State. Professionally, she worked as an administrator at Foremost Insurance and later at Tropicana Screen and Glass. In the early 2000s, she joined the family business, Clearwater Towing Service, where she shared her organizational skills until her retirement.

Outside of work, Jessie lived a rich and creative life. She enjoyed crocheting, cooking and baking for her family, and taking cherished trips to the beach. She was an avid lover of animals, donated to several charities, and loved her cat, Charlie. She also had an adventurous spirit—so much so that she even took flying lessons later in life. Her warmth, creativity, and boldness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

A woman of deep faith, Jessie attended New Hope Church with her son Jeff, where she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior during a service—a moment of peace and personal conviction when she felt truly ready.

Jessie is preceded in death by her parents, Theron and Foye Gray; her brothers, Donny and Lamar; and her stepdaughter, Sally Cordner.

She is survived by her loving children: Jefferey (Tina) Parker, Sean (Christina) Cordner-James, and stepson Tim (Kathy) Cordner. She also leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Jessica Parker, Danielle Parker, Sarah Parker, Avery Cordner-James, Rowan Cordner-James, Olivia Cordner-James, Lyra Parker, Amelia Parker, and Evie Parker.

Jessie will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her kindness, strength, adventurous heart, and the joy she brought to those around her.

A graveside service to be held privately with the family with a Celebration of Life reception at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home 2853 Sunset Point Road Clearwater, Florida 33759 on Sunday August 24, 2025 at 10:30am.