Marguarete Gray

Marguarete Leona Gray age 92 of Albuquerque NM passede peacefully away at Ativo Senior Living of Albuquerque on December 12th, 2025.

Born on March 7th, 1933 to Bill and Mattie Fenn of Portales NM.

Marge is survived by her daughter Gina Guilkey and son Joseph Rita. Three grandchildren, Richard Guilkey 111, Rachel Guilkey, and Joseph Rita Jr. One great grandson, Richard Guilkey 1V.

A graduate of Portales High School, she moved to Clovis, NM in 1951 where she worked as a teletype operator for Western Union. She met Joe Rita who was stationed at Cannon Air Force Base. They were married and traveled the world for twenty years. While stationed at Wheeler Air Force Base in Wahiawa, Hawaii she was presented with a prestigious Military of the Wife Award on March 17th, 1972.

Marge moved to Albuquerque in 1974, where she and her sister Evelyn George opened up a dress shop called Mode O' Day on 4th Street in downtown ALB. This was a dream come true for these sisters. After Marge and Joe divorced she was able to pursue her talents in the area of fashion.

Marge remarried an old classmate from Portales High School, his name was Wayman Gray.

He was the love of her life, they were married for twenty five years.

They both joined the Young at Heart Choir led by Connie Atkinson.

For twenty years they traveled the US with YAH singing in concerts. Marge also started the Angels, an ensemble within YAH. Marge was an accomplished vocalist, and musician playing the piano, guitar and mandolin.

Marge also wrote her memoir thru the Storybook company. It was called Peace thru Forgiveness.

Marge was a force! Raised in a Christian home, she loved. walked and sang with Jesus. She brought His light and love to everyone she met. Marge was a woman of substance. She inspired others, led by example and used her voice to create positive change.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 2:00 pm, at the Young at Heart Center on 1202 Pennsylvania St. NE, ABQ 87110.

Please dress in Turquoise and Silver.