Ruth E. Gray, 91, of Defiance, peacefully passed away on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Twin Rivers Care and Rehabilitation Center.   
  
She was born on January 22, 1926 to Orville and Christine (Groh) Heilshorn in Junction, Ohio. Ruth was a 1944 graduate of Defiance High School, she earned the Linhardt Award, and was a member of DHS Hall of Fame. She was married to Jim Gray, who preceded her in death. 
  
She was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church, secretary of Sunday School, and a Youth Fellowship Leader for over 25 years. She was a Church Historian, and a member of United Methodist Women. She loved Defiance Bulldogs sports, was a Detroit Tigers fan. Ruth was a professional photographer of sports, family, and more events. She was known and loved by all as "Aunt Ruth", and she will be missed by many.
  
Ruth is survived by 23 nieces and nephews, and her sister, Pat (and the late Bud) Christy. 
  
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, Jim Gray, sisters, Vada Bauer, Eileen Cubberly, and D'Nelle Brown, brothers, Don and Orville Heilshorn, and niece, Sharon Bauer.
  
Visitation will be held from 2-7 pm on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, and for one hour prior to services at the church. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 4th at Trinity United Methodist Church, with Pastor Judy Williams officiating. Burial will follow the service at Riverview Memory Gardens.
  
Memorials are suggested to Trinity United Methodist Women or Youth. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.