MARIA GRAY (BURKIS)

Maria Gray (Burkis) of Bandera, Texas, passed away on November 22, 2022, in Hondo, Texas. She was born in Crete, Greece to Haralambos and Aikaterini (Panderi) Burkis on March 11, 1950.

She met her husband, William Howard Gray in 1980 and later married on December 11, 1982, in Houston, Texas.

Maria’s legacy was her family. She was the true epitome of Proverbs 31:1031. She lived every day with enthusiasm, gratitude, and humility. Her devotion to her husband was felt in all she did, and she inspired her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews how important commitment was.

Maria never missed an opportunity to celebrate a milestone. She had a gift for making others feel God’s Love in their own creation. She believed strongly our Godly gifts were intentional and spent time making sure her family knew each of theirs. She had an ability to see right to the heart of someone and identify beauty.

Maria was an exceptional host. Her culinary gifts touched everyone who knew her. Her ability to pour love into food and feed anyone in need, with a moment’s notice, was truly magical.

Maria had a knack for making the most mundane things memorable. She loved to laugh and joke and play. She could beat you at almost any card game, and you loved it when she did, because Maria knew how to celebrate.

Proverbs 31:31 Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Haralambos and Aikaterini (Panderi) Burkis and daughter, Maria Burkis.

Maria is survived by husband of 40 years, William Howard Gray; sons, William Gray Jr. and Sean Gray; brothers, Manolys Burkis and Nicko Burkis; granddaughters, Dakota Gray and Catherine Ringel; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2022, at 12:00PM at Grimes Bandera Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are entrusted to Grimes Bandera Funeral Chapel of Bandera, Texas.