Elaine Carol Gray passed away on November 18, 2022 in her home surrounded by family. Elaine (75) died of heart failure after suffering with Alzheimers.

Born in Phoenix, Arizona on February 3, 1947, parents Harold and Helen Brown. Elaine moved to California in 1965. Elaine received both her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Education Administration from Chico State University. Throughout her career she was passionate about public education and promoting learning.

Elaine spent her career in education beginning as a teacher in 1972. She worked in several California cities both in the classroom and administration in East Nicolaus, West Sacramento and Dos Palos. Elaine spent 1978 abroad teaching in Wales. She adored her time and took pride in her accomplishments as Principal/Superintendent of Freshwater Elementary School (1994-2005).

As a lifelong learner, during her retirement Elaine enjoyed taking courses at Cal Poly Humboldt. Throughout her life Elaine loved travel, especially visiting museums both nationally and internationally. She enjoyed painting and believed in reusing goods as an avid thrift store shopper. Elaine was a member of the Rotary, active in the Democratic party and the Humboldt Handweavers and Spinners Guild.

She is survived by daughter Rainbow Greer and son-in-law Adam Sullivan of Santa Rosa, California, Son Todd and daughter-in-law Dorothy Johnsgard of Aransa Pass, Texas and son John O’Brien of Fair Oaks, California.

The family is holding a celebration of life for immediate family and friends. This is a private event. Elaine wanted most for her friends and family to visit with her before her death and luckily this wish came true.