Shirley S. Gray

Shirley Sapp Peterson Gray of Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully at age 87 on April 2, 2026.

Born Shirley Jean Sapp on February 20, 1939, in Bonifay, Florida, Shirley lived a life defined by warmth, resilience, and an unmistakable gift for love. From her early years on a Florida farm to a life that spanned Alabama, Colorado, California, New York, Arizona, and Texas, she brought joy, laughter, and connection wherever she went.

Shirley married twice. She married Wayne A. Peterson and they had three daughters. She later married Robert T. Gray. Throughout her life, Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She raised her three daughters with strength, humor, and unwavering love, creating a home Jilled with laughter, music, and encouragement. Later in life, she became “Mimi” to her grandchildren, a role she cherished deeply, showing up faithfully for their lives and surrounding them with affection, celebration, and her famous French toast breakfasts.

Throughout her life, Shirley built meaningful friendships and pursued her work as a paralegal and legal secretary with curiosity and dedication. She engaged with the world around her—always reading, always learning, and always connecting with others. Her faith journey was thoughtful and personal, but above all, her life was a living example of love in action. And that love will remain with all who knew her.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Shelton R. Sapp, and Wilna Louvern Sowell; stepfather, Joel C. Sowell; her brother and sister-in-law, Ronnie and Brenda Sapp; and her daughter, Wendy E. Peterson.

She is survived by her daughters, Margot P. Copps (Dave) of Dallas and Lori P. Rose (James); of McKinney, and her beloved grandchildren, Austin and Spencer Copps of Dallas, and Brooke and Trevor Rose of McKinney.

A small family service will be held on Friday 3:00 PM, April 17, 2026 at Live Oak Cemetery in Bonifay, Florida, under the direction of Peel Funeral Home.