Mrs. Melanie Gray, age 55, Telford, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Johnson City Medical Center.
Mrs. Gray was born on September 22, 1970, in Greeneville, Tennessee to the late Bill & Mary Smith DeVotie.
She was of the Baptist faith.
Melanie worked for The Arc in Human Resources Department.
She loved her dogs and enjoyed reading, traveling and shopping.
Survivors include her husband, Zane Gray, Telford; children, Meagan Smith (Tony), Alisha Hallmark (Thomas), Torie Gray (Tara Hall) and Wes Gray, all of Johnson City; grandchildren, Conner Foster, Christian Smith, Marley Marie Smith, Zane Gray III, Matthew Hughes and Jacob Hughes; brothers, Butch Richardson, Royce Richardson and Billy DeVotie Jr; sisters, Vickie Richardson and Joanna Steele; several nephews and nieces; and special friends, Frances Manning and Wendy Lilly.
Funeral services will be conducted 7:00 PM Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Kenny Whaley officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday prior to the service.
Graveside services will be conducted 10:00 AM, Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Philadelphia Cemetery. Family request friends meet at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home at 9:15 AM to go in procession to cemetery.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, c/o Jericho Temple, P.O. Box 5508, Kingsport, Tennessee 37663.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821
Melanie was always such a sweet person. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful sister, wife, Momma and so many more hats that she wore proudly.
08/28/2026
Gina McGee Williams
Zane,
I'm so heartbroken to hear that your wife, Melanie passed away. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Gina McGee Williams-Pediatrics
08/25/2026
Aunt Eileen and Uncle Ronny
Aunt Eileen and Uncle Ronny loves all of you. We will not be able to come and be with during this time of sorrow and grief. Please know that we are praying for each of you. The Living God can be trusted not only for Heaven as a home but also comfort and encouragement for the days to follow.
Sincerely
Aunt Eileen and Uncle Ronny
08/25/2026
Melinda Squiers
I'm sorry to hear this and am praying for Mike and all of the family at this time.
08/24/2026
The Arc of Washington County
From everyone here at The Arc of Washington County, we are so sorry for your loss. Melanie was a wonderful co-worker and friend to us all. We will greatly miss her kindness and sweet smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
08/24/2026
David Meade
Melanie was a tremendously kind and sweet person. So very sad to hear this and sending our deepest condolences to her loved ones. She was a joy to know.
08/24/2026
Tina Rankin
Melanie will be missed. She was such a sweet person and always had a kind word or laugh for someone. Condolences to her family and her special dog Roxie.
08/24/2026
Misty Clawson
I remember riding in back daddy's truck going dandridge with u I'm so glad u knew Jesus and are in heaven I love u mel see u one day soon tell uncle Johnny I said hey I didn't know u all shared same birthday
08/24/2026
Mikaela Donegan
Melanie was one of the best coworkers I've had. We bonded over our love of going over the top decorating for Christmas. I'll never forget coming in one morning to a 8 foot Christmas tree. She was so fun to work with, always energetic and happy. My heart is broken for her family. She loved her children and Grandchildren deeply and I hope they know they are in my deepest prayers for peace that passes all understanding and that God would use this to draw them closer to Him. I pray they can see Him and find Him in the midst of their pain.
08/24/2026
Tammy Lowe
I was saddened to hear this news. Sending heartfelt sympathy to you and your family, and wishing you comfort in the midst of this loss.
08/24/2026
Ann shanks
So sorry Zane to hear about your wife. We will keep you an your family in our prayers.
08/24/2026
Royce & Donna Richardson
Sending our sincere condolences for Zane, Tori, and Wes and all the family. Melanie was a sweet soul that made everyone laugh. I’m sure she will be missed by all. Prayers for comfort and peace for the days that lie ahead. We love you.
08/24/2026
Mary Crowder
Melanie was so kind and fun to work with. She spoke often of her love for her family and proudly showed off pictures of her children, grandchildren, and doggies any chance she could. I am saddened to hear of this loss. My prayers are with her family and friends. May God comfort you as you remember sweet Melanie.
