Jaoma Lou (Eads) Gray

With profound sadness and a heavy heart…

I am sharing the passing of our beloved sister, Jaoma Lou (Eads) Gray. Jaoma showed courage in her fight with cancer and stayed with us as long as she could. She passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Blue Springs Missouri.

Born on February 8, 1956, she was not only a sister but a friend and confidant to everyone who knew her. Growing up, she shared countless adventures with her three brothers. Always outnumbered, she held her own when challenged and as a girl, she was the only one of us to have her own bedroom. Jaoma had a deep and genuine laugh and a generous spirit. She had an easy smile that put everyone at ease and was kind to all no matter the circumstance. She was the family calendar and always reminded us whose birthday was coming up. Sometimes as a joke, we would call her and remind her that it was her birthday.

Jaoma graduated from East High School in Kansas City MO in 1974 and later received a degree from Longview Community College. Jaoma was a super softball player and enjoyed years of fun and success on the field. After college she worked for forty-three years with the Thales Group, a global aerospace company. She was a publications coordinator preparing training manuals for aircraft landing systems. She was known and treasured by colleagues around the world.

Jaoma and Pete Gray were married on the beach, surrounded by family and friends, in Hermosa Beach California on June 14, 2003. It was a perfect day, barefoot in the sand and a joyous day for them both. They have planned in advance to forgo any type of service but intend for her ashes to be spread on the ocean near the spot where they were married by her father. In lieu of flowers or donations please take a special day to enjoy your families in honor of her memory.

Jaoma is survived by her husband Pete Gray, her mother Naomi, three brothers Wayne, Stephen, and Mark, three nieces, and three nephews.

Condolences

  1. Pam and John Wingo on October 21, 2025 at 10:08 am

    She was a beautiful soul, a wonderful sister-in-law and a true friend. She loved fiercely, with all of her heart. Her light will be sorely missed



  2. Judy & Kenny Gray on October 21, 2025 at 10:26 am

    Jay was the greatest person and perfect for our son Pete. Never argued or yelled at each other. She was caring and truly one of a kind and never thought of herself first. We loved her so very much and still do. I know she is looking down on Pete and helping him with his sadness. She is missed so much.



  3. Heather Litton on October 21, 2025 at 10:48 am

    I loved her so much. I know i wasnt her child but the day of your wedding was beautiful. I remember my teeth hurting so bad. It sad but also your not in any more pain. I will continue all my cancer support stuff i can do. Thank you for always being there for me and my children. I love and miss you Jay. Thank you for always making my dad a better man.



  4. Evelyn Duncan on October 21, 2025 at 11:10 am

    God bless each one of you in this time of loss and mourning. Time keeps turning the pages of our lives.may your tears be within the pages turned someday as they rest in peace. ……..thank you Lord, Amen



  5. Shannon Grindinger on October 21, 2025 at 1:56 pm

    May God comfort each family member with loving memories of sweet Jaoma! She was a very special woman with a heart of gold. I am so proud to have called her my sister-in-law.



  6. Debbie and Carl Winterowd on October 21, 2025 at 3:20 pm

    Pete we are so sorry for your loss. Jay was truly a lovely lady and always a pleasure to be around. God be with you during this difficult time.



  7. Marcie Butkovich on October 21, 2025 at 5:20 pm

    Pete and family, my deepest sympathy to you. Always have had great times with Jay and her easy laugh and beautiful smile ( although it’s been some time ago)I know how much you will miss her . My heart goes out to all of you.



  8. Gary & MaryAnn Eagan on October 24, 2025 at 11:32 am

    MaryAnn and I are sorry to hear of Jaoma’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you boys and your Mom.



  9. Pete Rowe on October 24, 2025 at 6:17 pm

    I will miss Jaoma. I remember her always smiling and laughing. She could find joy in pretty much every thing. I pray for our blessed hope our Lord Jesus comes to gather us all to himself or if God should send his angels to carry us to the throne room of God.



  10. Helen (Power) Wilczewski on October 24, 2025 at 7:18 pm

    Extending my deepest sympathy to you and your family, on this tremendous loss. I was one of Jaoma classmates, East High Class of 1974, even after all these years later the thought of her brings a smile to my face. May happy memoirs and prayers help during this difficult time for each of you. She will be truly missed.



  11. Dede Brozovich Rosey Messersmith on October 26, 2025 at 2:50 pm

    Rosey & I would like to express our deepest sympathy for your loss. Praying for peace and comfort. Dede & Rosey



  12. Lisa & Eddie Clark on November 5, 2025 at 2:59 pm

    Jay was such a beautiful lady, with her loving heart and her beautiful smile, she will be missed, our condolences to Pete and the family. Always cherish the happy memories’ that she has brought into each of your lives. God bless you all



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