Carol Joyce Gray—4/18/2023

Carol Joyce Gray passed away on April 18, 2023. Carol was born to David H. Gray and Florence Gray (nee Sheck) in Philadelphia, PA, on June 27, 1934. She was preceded in death by her sister, the late June Neely and her nephew David Neely.  She is survived by her niece Barbara Neely, nephew James Neely and James’ children, Fox (Alyssa) and Michael and David’s “son” Eric.

Carol was a registered nurse and attained a Doctorate in Education from Columbia University. Carol also attained the rank of Captain in the United States Air Force, spending most of her military career in Oklahoma and Germany. She was a professor and chairman of the nursing department at the University of New Hampshire, as well as Associate Dean of the school of nursing at the University of Maine.

In 1984, Carol became the founding Dean of  the school of nursing of John Hopkins University, a position she held until 1993 when she retired. As Dean, Carol moved decisively, holding to the vision that nursing education at Johns Hopkins University must conform with the mission of the university and must support a philosophy of academic excellence and exemplary humane practice. Carol excelled in her leadership and was highly regarded by both the university establishment and the many students who attended courses designed by her to carry them on into their careers after graduation. In 1991, Carol also helped establish the Peace Corps Fellow/USA Program at John Hopkins University which was the first such program in the country in Nursing.

In addition to her scholarly pursuits, Carol had a great love of travel. Her favorite place to travel was Ocean City, New Jersey.  Carol also traveled internationally, as well as domestically to Florida, Maine, and Texas.

Carol was known by her family and friends to be a very gentle spirit. She also engendered a great love for animals having many fond pets over her lifetime. Carol will be dearly missed by her loving family and her many friends.

A Service will be held at the Whitemarsh Memorial Park, 1169 Limekiln Pike, Ambler, PA on Friday, May 5, 2023 at 11 AM.  Anyone wishing to make a memorial donation is asked to make it in memory of Carol to their favorite charity.

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