Gloria Jean Sray

Gloria Jean Sray, of Charlottesville, Virginia, formerly of Conneaut, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on June 29, 1946, in Steubenville, Ohio, Gloria spent her childhood growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She devoted most of her life to being a loving stay-at-home mother, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to raising her family. After the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Brenda, Gloria selflessly opened her heart once again by adopting and raising Briaunna, whom she loved beyond measure.

Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved daughters, Brenda Herron and Melissa Weigner; her biological mother, Marie; her adopted family members, Chester Devoe, Roberta Francis, and Marvin Devoe; and her aunts, Wanda and Mildred.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Thomas Sray; her daughter, Bre Duff; her cherished granddaughter, Noelle Duff; her grandsons, Stephen Weigner and Isaac Weigner; her stepchildren, LaShawn Michalski and Shannon Nicoletta, along with their families; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched.

Gloria was known for her extraordinary love of people and her remarkable ability to make friends wherever she went. She never met a stranger and had a gift for bringing laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories to everyone around her. Young at heart, Gloria embraced life with enthusiasm and creativity. She enjoyed sewing, ceramics, video games, drag racing, and anything involving cars—even building engines from scratch. Her love for dogs and animals was unmatched. If she found an animal in need, she welcomed it with open arms and a loving heart.

Some of Gloria's happiest moments were spent with her granddaughter, Noelle, playing games, making crafts, and creating memories that will be treasured forever. She was creative, generous, hilarious, bold, and unapologetically herself. Gloria loved fiercely and had a way of making everyone she met feel valued and special. Her extravagant creations, infectious sense of humor, and unforgettable personality ensured she left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff of Gentiva Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and love they provided during Gloria's final days. Their kindness—bringing flowers, cards, candy, singing her favorite songs, sharing laughter, looking through treasured photographs, and holding her hand until the very end—brought immeasurable comfort to Gloria and her family.

The family would also like to thank the dedicated nursing staff at Cedars Healthcare Center in Charlottesville for the compassionate care and support they showed Gloria throughout her time there.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Gloria's honor to a local animal rescue or shelter. Gloria believed every animal deserved love, kindness, and a safe home, and a gift in her memory will help continue that legacy.

Though she will be deeply missed, Gloria's laughter, generosity, fierce love, and vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.