Tasha Nicole Gray

Tasha Nicole Gray gently slipped away from this world on Friday, July 3 at Ascension St. John Medical Center in Tulsa at the age of 45. She departed as she lived, on her own terms, leaving behind a trail of magic, a little fairy dust, an unforgettable free spirit, and countless family members and friends who will miss her forever. After a struggle with cancer, she is finally at peace. Tasha was born in Bartlesville, Oklahoma on February 17, 1981, with, “Stars in her eyes,” as her Ma said. Though born in the 80’s she moved through life as a flower child, guided by her own heart, doing what she wanted, when she wanted to do it. She attended the Caney Valley school district from kindergarten until her graduation in 2000. Where she formed lifelong friendships that remained important throughout her life. Over the years, she worked as a server at various restaurants in Bartlesville and Tulsa including Garfield’s, Monterey’s, Hoop’s, Wild Fork, Samantha’s and most recently Crossing 2nd. Tasha loved serving people and building lasting relationships with her co-workers and patrons in the service industry, but what she truly enjoyed was transforming everyday interactions into moments of authentic connection. Her playful, easy-going personality and smile effortlessly drew people to her not only at work, but in every part of her life. She possessed the rare gift of giving for the sole purpose of doing so. She had few material things but poured energy and kindness into those that needed it whenever and wherever she could. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: family, friends, music, nature and animals, and was always up for a good time. A spiritual seeker who pursued a deeper understanding of the world around her and mysteries beyond, approaching life with wonder, introspection, empathy and resilience. Her greatest quality was truly seeing people with no pretense or judgment. Her life was a beautiful, and at times chaotic, journey. She occasionally fought personal battles with courage but never allowed them to fully extinguish her light. Cancer may have quieted her physically but could never tame her spirit. Her family and friends take comfort in knowing she is finally free of the things that tethered her on earth. She is survived by her son Mayson Willman, who in her own words was, “My sun, my moon, and all my stars.” She also shared a strong bond with her brother, Greg Gray, who was her lifelong confidant; as well as her long-time significant other Josh Willman who helped her so much along her journey; her dad Ed Owens; her nephew Hayden Byard; her maternal grandparents, Charles and Patricia Neal; and her paternal grandmother, Pat Gray. As well as an overabundance of aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family - some bound by blood and some by choice. Each of them endlessly grateful for her impact on their lives. She was reunited with her mother, Michelle Owens; her father David Gray; her paternal grandfather Leon Gray; as well as a host of family and friends that no doubt welcomed her with open arms. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the charity of your choice in her memory or Hopestone Cancer Support Center of Bartlesville. Peace and love.

Tasha Nicole Gray

February 17, 1981 - July 3, 2026