Vara Shan Upton Gray passed away Sunday, May 3, 2026 in Georgetown, Texas at the age of 85. Vara was born on July 16, 1940 in Lampasas, Texas, the daughter of Nona Lee Reese Upton and Audrey Orvellee Upton. Vara grew up in San Antonio and later attended school in Lampasas after the death of her mother in 1952. She graduated Valedictorian of her class at Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio. She attended Abilene Christian University where she met and married Roland Allen Gray on August 20, 1960.

Vara and Allen spent 65 devoted years together, and together they designed, built and decorated their own home in 1977. She had a deep love for family and friends. She loved to sew for friends and charities, and had a special talent for decorating and making things beautiful with flowers. Vara had a fondness for children and animals, and enjoyed the deer, birds, butterflies and bluebonnets surrounding their home. Many will remember her special devotion and attachment to her little red dogs.

Vara had a great love for God and family, and was a member of Georgetown Church of Christ since 1977 where she served as an administrator for the jail/outreach ministry program. She also served as Church Secretary for 5 years and was the founder and coordinator of the church resource room. Much of her life was devoted to service, ministry, volunteer work and helping others. She loved Jesus and wanted people to know about Him.

Vara is preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Teri Gray. She is survived by her husband, Allen Gray, her daughter Lori Gray of Fort Worth, Texas and many beloved extended family members.

Vara will be remembered for her commitment and devotion to family and friends, and for her attention to detail, her organization, dedication and striving for excellence in all that she touched. Her legacy will live on in the lives she reached through her years of service, ministry, outreach and friendship.

The family would like to thank the staff at Autumn Leaves and Concho Hearts Hospice for their care and support during her final weeks.