Nola Dell Gray, 78, of Eddyville, Kentucky, passed away on March 5, 2025, at Baptist Health Paducah.
Born on April 19, 1946, in White Plains, Kentucky, to her late parents, Thurman and Nola Dillinder Jordan. Nola’s storied career at BellSouth spanned an impressive 33 years, during which she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to growth and service. Starting as a long-distance phone operator in Madisonville, Kentucky, she climbed the ranks through various roles, culminating in her retirement as a planning coordinator while living in New Albany, Indiana. Her career saw her living in New Albany, Indiana, and Phoenix, Arizona, before she settled into retirement and moved to Eddyville with her husband, Tom. Beyond her professional endeavors, Nola was deeply involved in union activities, proudly serving as President of the Louisville CWA – an achievement that spoke volumes about her dedication to workers’ rights and community advocacy.
Nola’s zest for life was evident in her hobbies and interests. Her affection for her grandbabies was unparalleled, and she found joy in reading, the play of cards, and the thrill of travel. She and her beloved husband, Tom, often embraced the world from the deck of a cruise ship. She was also known for her delicious cooking. A pillar of her community, Nola was a life member of the VFW Auxiliary in Princeton, Kentucky, and she contributed to the Fraternal Order of Eagles, American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans in Bradenton, Florida. During the winter months, she and Tom found a second home in Bradenton, where they spent 18 cherished years.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Tom Gray; daughter, LaRena (Troy) Smith of Bedford, IN; son, Derrick (Sheri) Lloyd of Princeton, KY; sister, Lynne Slaton of White Plains, KY; brother, Larry (Donna) Jordan of West Frankfort, IL; seven grandchildren, Autumn (Evan) Daugherty, Jason (Ashtan) Bean, Baelei Lloyd, John Collie, Victor Banes, John (Janis) Price, Erin (Brock) Sinclair; eight great-grandchildren, Piper Daugherty, Baylor Daugherty, Bennett Daugherty, Kaylee Bean, Kristian Bean, Alanna Price, Ira Sinclair, Ian Sinclair; several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Nola was preceded in death by two brothers, Lindal Jordan and Don Jordan.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. (CST) on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyville, Kentucky. Burial will follow in Mt. Carmel Church Cemetery in White Plains, Kentucky.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (CST) on Monday, March 10, 2025 and from 9:00 a.m. (CST) until service time on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Lakeland Funeral Home.
Expressions of sympathy may be made in Nola’s memory to VFW 5595 Auxiliary, c/o Helen Shipman, 102 East Washington Street, Princeton, KY 42445.
