Betty Jane Gray Jackson

In Loving Memory of

Mrs. Betty Jane Gregory Gray Jackson

July 9, 1932 – August 3, 2026

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."Romans 8:28

Mrs. Betty Jane Gregory Gray Jackson, 94, of Old Highway 60, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 3, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love and devotion of her family. She was born on July 9, 1932, in Wilkes County to the late Morris David Gregory and Cordie Johnson Gregory.

Mrs. Jackson's life was a remarkable testimony of perseverance, sacrifice, unwavering faith, and unconditional love. As a young girl, she made the difficult decision to leave school in order to help care for her younger brothers and sisters during her mother's illness. Though her education was interrupted, her determination never faded. Through steadfast faith in God and a commitment to improving herself, she later earned her GED before continuing her education at Wilkes Community College, where she graduated with an Associate Degree in Culinary Science.

She went on to serve as Cafeteria Manager at Ronda-Clingman Elementary School, where she found great joy in caring for the children she served each day. The position also allowed her the blessing of working while her own children were in school and being home with them afterward, something she treasured deeply. Her family was always her greatest priority.

A devoted follower of Christ, Mrs. Jackson was a faithful member of Dennyville Baptist Church. Throughout the years she joyfully served her church family as a Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School director, choir member, and in many other ministries. Her life reflected the faith she professed, and she sought daily to honor the Lord through her words, her actions, and her service to others.

Family was the heartbeat of Betty's life. She was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest desire was for her family to remain united in love. After the heartbreaking loss of her first husband early in life, she remarried and lovingly taught her children that they were all one family, bound together not by circumstance, but by love. That lesson became one of the greatest gifts she ever gave.

She possessed a wonderful sense of humor and was truly one of a kind. Betty loved to laugh, especially when the joke was on herself or after finding herself in one of life's humorous situations. Her joyful spirit, quick wit, and warm smile brought comfort and happiness to everyone around her.

Known for her determination, honesty, courage, and strength, Betty lived as an extraordinary example for her family. She continually looked for opportunities to help others and quietly gave of herself without expecting anything in return.

One of the most remarkable demonstrations of her selfless love came in 1970 when she donated one of her kidneys to her son. She became part of Duke University Hospital's transplant history as the donor of its 75th kidney transplant procedure. Despite the challenges of a difficult surgery and recovery, limited financial resources, and the responsibilities of raising young children, she never wavered. Supported by the love of her community, local churches, schools, and countless fundraisers, Betty often reflected that God had faithfully provided every need, just as she believed He always would.

When asked what legacy she hoped to leave behind, Betty's answer was simple and heartfelt: "A woman that lived her life by the Word of God." Those who knew her can testify that she fulfilled that calling with grace, humility, and unwavering faith.

She leaves behind a legacy not measured by possessions or accomplishments alone, but by lives changed through her kindness, generosity, steadfast faith, and sacrificial love. Truly, to God be the glory, great things He has done through her life.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husbands, James Dwight Gray and William E. Jackson, Jr.; a brother, Ralph Gregory; and sons, James Allen Gray and Terry Lee Jackson.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving children, David Gray and wife, Susan; Wayne Gray and wife, Beth; Scott Jackson and wife, Sharon; Jane Horne and fiance’ Bryan; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; her sister, Patty Mathis; her brothers, Claude Gregory, Willie Gregory; and numerous niece, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville.

Her funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Dennyville Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Jason Wiles and Rev. Joel Riley. Mrs. Jackson will lie in state for thirty minutes prior to the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice, P.O. Box 325, Dobson, NC 27017.

"To God be the glory, great things He has done."