Sherry Mae Gray Holder

Sherry Mae Gray Holder, age 72, passed away Wednesday, September 24, 2025 surrounded by her family at her home in Batesville, Mississippi.

A memorial service to celebrate Sherry's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2025 in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Sherry was born to the late Charlie Gray and Lula Mae Bright Gray in Sardis, MS. She dedicated nearly 20 years of her professional life to the former Panola Mills in Batesville, where she made lasting friendships and contributed significantly to her workplace.

Sherry’s commitment extended beyond her career; she was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Batesville. At the church, Sherry played an active role, often assisting her husband, Dickey, during special occasions, fostering a sense of community among her fellow congregants. She cherished her time with Dr. Ball's Sunday School Class and took great joy in the company of her church family. Sherry was especially known for handing out candy on Sunday mornings, a small but cherished act that brought smiles to many.

In her leisure time, Sherry found joy in fishing, a passion that persisted until her health no longer permitted her to engage in her beloved hobby.

The family she leaves behind include her husband of 45 years, Richard K. Holder “Dickey” of Batesville, MS; her three sisters, Frances Gray Riley (Paul Leslie) of Hernando, MS, Debbie Gray Norris (Ron) of Little Rock, AR, and Janie Tedford of Batesville, MS; three brothers, Charlie “Bubba” Gray (Dana) of Olive Branch, MS, Ricky Gray (Terri) of Batesville, MS, and Larry Gray (Debbie) of Batesville, MS.

She also leaves behind the “apple of her eye”, Charlie McKay Gray of Cordova and a special cousin, Barbara Bright Bennett.

Sherry leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and one baby great niece, Farley Mae Riley, whom she all loved so very much.

Along with her parents, Lula Mae and Charlie Gray, she is preceded in death by one sister, Vickie Gray Thompson and a beloved cousin/brother, Hugh Wayne "Shot" Bright.

Sherry will be fondly remembered for her unwavering faith, loving nature, and the joy she brought to the lives of those around her. Her legacy of kindness and community service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.