Dorothy Louise Jones-Gray peacefully departed this life on May 22, 2026, at Parkwest Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, creativity, and resilience. Born on December 15, 1957, in Knoxville, Dorothy lived a life marked by perseverance, compassion, and an unforgettable spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Dorothy was a proud alumna of Rule High School, where her bright personality, intelligence, and vibrant energy shined early on. She was known for her radiant smile, energetic spirit, and a lively presence that could light up any room. A truly free-spirited soul, Dorothy loved deeply and wholeheartedly. She possessed remarkable creativity and ingenuity, often making something beautiful with very little. Whether through her artistry, her incredible dancing, or her unique ability to bring joy and laughter to others, Dorothy expressed herself with authenticity and passion. Though small in stature, she carried the heart and strength of a giant — a true survivor whose determination inspired many.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frederick Gray, her grandmother, Johnella Evans, her mother, Ruby Mae Evans, her father, James Hardy Jones, her aunts and uncle, Lola White, Bertha Cowan, Mary Mae White, Worley Major Evans Jr. and Offie Evans, her cherished daughter, Fonda Angelica Pannell, her brothers, John Evans and Barry Evans, her sister, Susie Tory, her nieces, Angela Walker and LeShae Evans; and her nephews, Cordell Evans and Shawn Ross Evans.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories her loving daughter, April (Rick) Hardin; her devoted son, Robert G. Pannell Jr.; and a legacy of grandchildren: Travius Blair, Chynna (Jaylen) Templin, Trariq (Maya) Hardin, Rickysia Hardin, Psalm Evans-Hardin, Christopher Harvey Jr., Sariah Garrett, Rodarius Pannell, Messiah Pannell, Kobe Pannell, Tru Pannell, Onyx Pannell, Ra’Niya Pannell, and Gary Nolan. Dorothy was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life: Zyla Blair, Kinslee Blair, Na’Kai Hardin, De’Aire Smith, Jayce Gallman, Reagan Templin, and London Templin. She also leaves to mourn her, her sisters and brothers; Barbara Evans, Cora Jones, Donna Evans, James Jones, Arthur Evans, Glenn(Priscilla) Evans, Raven Evans, Gregory(Ericka) Evans, Steven Evans, and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we celebrate the beautiful life Dorothy lived and the countless memories she created. Her love, laughter, creativity, and strength will continue to live on through the family and friends who loved her dearly.