

Growing up, Caroline moved frequently due to her father’s service in the United States Air Force. She graduated from high school in Berlin, Germany. Her father was then transferred to Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in Belton, Missouri, where Caroline met her husband, Gary, on a blind date. They were married on May 27, 1978, at Scott Air Force Base.
Caroline was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud Oma, sister, and friend whose greatest joy in life was her family. She passed away just two days before celebrating her 48th wedding anniversary with her husband, Gary Gray.
For 42 years, Caroline embraced motherhood with endless care and dedication. While her children were in school, she was actively involved in the PTA and served as the crosswalk attendant for both the elementary and middle schools. She loved attending her children’s sporting events and activities. Anyone who attended her son’s baseball games likely remembers hearing her signature whistle followed by the proud cheer, “That’s my boy!” She also loved cheering on her daughter in dance, gymnastics, and volleyball.
Caroline especially cherished her role as “Oma,” and her grandchildren brought immeasurable happiness to her life. She loved spending time with them and creating memories. She attended all of their events and enjoyed going to activities at their schools.
Caroline was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Rose Marie Trautner.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gary Gray; her children, Kevin Gray and Kristen Beerbaur; her sister, Shirley Dill; her son-in-law, Josh Beerbaur; her daughter-in-law, Amanda Gray; and her five cherished grandchildren, Torey, Brayten, and Maelie Beerbaur, and Quinn and Nora Gray. She is also survived by her nephew and niece, Erik (Lacy) Dill and Lindsey (Brian) Dill, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
Visitation will be held at McGilley State Line Chapel on June 5, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m.
Committal services will take place at Mount Moriah Cemetery South on June 5, 2026, at 2:15 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to make a donation in Caroline's name to either the Shriners Children's Hospital or to the Missouri Birding Society.
DONATIONS
Shriners Children's HospitalAttn: Processing Center , PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394
Missouri Birding Society2101 W. Broadway, PMB 122, Columbia, MO 65203-1261
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