Mrs. Bettye Gray died at Westminster Canterbury Retirement Center of Lynchburg Virginia on February 02, 2026. Though petite in stature, she has been described as a force, an anchor of the community and the most delightful person of her generation.

    Born in Davidson County NC on July 23, 1925 to Sybil Lopp Dillon and Zebulon Vance Dillon, Bettye was married to Clayton C. Gray Jr. who preceded her in death in 1968. Her predeceased sister was Isabel Dillon Sherrill (m. Henry Sherrill) of Columbia SC and her brother is James (Jim) Dillon of Piedmont Crossing of Thomasville NC. Bettye raised two sons. The eldest is Clayton (Corky) Gray III married to Pam Gray living in Southmont NC, and Zeb Dillon Gray married to Janet Gray in Lynchburg. She had one grandchild, Jennifer Gray of Winston Salem whom she adored. Aunt Bettye loved her three nieces: Betsy King (m. Frank King) of Raleigh, Julia Laws of Winston Salem, and Cynthia Dillon (m. Marc Chabot) of Blowing Rock

    .Mrs. Gray so loved her hometown of Lexington NC of which she became a powerful citizen and advocate. She felt immense pride in the contributions of her family for this small Southern town. She loved the First Methodist Church and had a strong faith. Bettye graduated from Salem Academy and Richmond Professional Institute (now VCU). Her deep love of Richmond Virginia was revealed in her stories of living there during “the War”. She was destined to live there. After her first night she realized what a major mistake she made by choosing to go to school there. She stood on the corner of Franklin Street, suitcase in hand, waiting for her parents to take her home. They drove by, waved and kept on going! After that she never wanted to leave.

    “Miss Dillon” returned to Lexington and opened a kindergarten. Many prominent Lexington citizens were her kindergartners. She told stories of their behaviors and blossoming personalities. Some stayed connected with her all her life, a testament of her impact.

    Bettye partnered with her husband Clayton in founding Gray Construction Company. She helped run the business while becoming a mother and homemaker. Many buildings and homes stand as brick and mortar evidence to the quality of their work. Mom was an early member of the Charity League of Lexington and was so proud of the work of “the League”.

    Following the passing of Clayton and her sons leaving home, Bettye became a world traveler. Expeditions with her friend Joan spanned the globe. At times they were fabulously unprepared but their adventurous spirits, laughter and resilience carried them through to a safe return. All the while Bettye’s cabin on High Rock lake was a prized refuge. Granddaughter Jennifer was inspired to travel by the adventure stories of her grandmother. From her Jennifer learned the best way to understand people is to see their home-you learn that we aren’t so different.

    Bettye loved history and old and beautiful things. Whether an antique, a home or an old person, she treasured their timeless authenticity. Her avocation was decorating and she became a master. Her mediums ranged from a milk can to a home. Weekly forays to the local farmers 'and flea market were an essential ritual. She loved seeking beauty and could enhance a simple teddy bear, decoy or ceramic pig with a lovingly tied ribbon. The vast bounty of items she collected provided much joy.

    During her long life Bettye witnessed much of the human condition. She could feel immense empathy and compassion. This called her to connect with people and bestow support and encouragement. She was strong-willed and occasionally displayed a stubborn nature. Paired with extraordinary people skills, she possessed a remarkable wit. It could be sharp and quick, yet she didn’t spare herself from the aim of her humor. It was legendary and enduring. One of her primary care nurses commented after some of her last words “she’s still got that quick wit!”.

    Bettye wasn’t a fan of funerals except those for the Royal Family, a President or the spouse of a President. Of these she was fascinated. Mrs. Gray requested that no service be conducted for her. This wish will be honored. However, should you desire to honor her memory with a charitable contribution please consider the First United Methodist Church of Lexington, The Charity League of Lexington, Westminster Canterbury Lynchburg Foundation or Lynchburg Daily Bread.

    We are deeply appreciative of the skill and compassion so lovingly provided to Bettye by the staff of Westminster Canterbury-Lynchburg. .