Katherine Clarke Wray

Katherine Clarke Wray, 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a brief and unexpected illness. Until her passing, Kay lived a full, active, and vibrant life marked by creativity, friendship, curiosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Kay was preceded in death by her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, Charles W. Wray, Sr., who passed away in 2018. Together they built a life centered on family, community, and enduring love. Born on July 26, 1939, in Petersburg, Virginia, Kay was the daughter of Stanley Leonard Clarke and Virginia Katherine Clarke. She is survived by her son, Charles W. Wray, Jr., and his wife, Shannon Childress Wray; her daughter, Katherine Wray Detamore, and her husband, David Marshall Detamore; her cherished granddaughters, Meredith Gibson Wray, Elizabeth Morgan Vaughan, and Emma Grace Detamore; her sister, Mary Beth Fallin; and her nephew, Scott Fowler. She also leaves behind countless friends, neighbors, and students whose lives were enriched by her vibrant personality, warmth, generosity, and spirited nature.

A proud graduate of Petersburg High School, Kay married C.W. in 1959, and the young couple began their life together in Washington, D.C. Before long, they returned to Petersburg, where they established their careers, raised their family, and became deeply rooted in the community they both loved.

Kay found joy in creating beauty throughout all aspects of her life. As the owner of her floral design and gift shop, Creations Unlimited, she shared her artistic talents with generations of customers, helping them celebrate life's milestones and traditions with elegance and care. Her love of flowers extended far beyond her profession. An accomplished gardener and floral arranger, she served as President of the Petersburg Garden Club and remained an active member for many years. Her gardens and floral designs reflected her colorful, creative, and bold character.

She was equally gifted with needle and thread. A master needlepointer and respected instructor, Kay devoted countless hours to learning, teaching, and preserving the art she loved. Whether designing floral arrangements, tending her gardens, or creating intricate needlepoint canvases, she approached every endeavor with imagination, patience, and extraordinary skill.

The family will receive friends on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at West End Needlepoint, 10440 Ridgefield Parkway, Richmond, Virginia.

A memorial service celebrating Kay's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Christ and Grace Episcopal Church, with interment to follow in the Church Memorial Garden.

In honor of Kay's lifelong love of color, creativity, and self-expression, the family invites attendees to wear bright colors and bold patterns.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the BrightSpring Hospice Foundation.

The family is being served by the Petersburg Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.jtmorriss.com.