Fredis Mabel Gray

Fredis Mabel Edmonds-Gray, the youngest daughter of Samuel and Lina Bell Edmonds, was born on April 21, 1923 in Littleton, North Carolina. God called His faithful servant home to her reward on September 14, 2002 at Johns Hopkins Hospital. At an early age, Mabel accepted Christ and was baptized at the Lee’s Chapel Baptist Church in Littleton, North Carolina. Upon successful completion of her high school education at Warrenton High School, she came to Baltimore, Maryland to live with her oldest sister, Elizabeth. On February 21, 1941, at the home of the founder of Zion Baptist Church, the late Reverend Matthew W. Wilkerson, Ocam and Mabel Edmonds were married. This union of fifty-eight years gave birth to three loving sons, Ocam Jr., Gregory and Wayne. Mabel and Ocam’s union was born of love, mutual respect and a commitment to provide the best possible future for they’re offspring-her commitment to educate and inspire good citizenship was relentless. Being reared in a large loving and humble southern Baptist family spawned and insatiable curiosity for the finer things in life. She was exceptionally stylish. Every Monday, she and sister Georgia could be found browsing the aisles of Stewarts, Hamburgers and Hoschild Kohns, dressed to the nines-hats, bags and gloves. She was also a dedicated member of Zion Baptist Church for more than sixty years during which time she chaired several ministries and was an active member of the Senior Choir and the Voices of Zion until her illness. Mabel’s quest for living extended beyond the shores of Maryland. Her children were encouraged to explore and discover the wonders and beauty of the world. In fact, her exploratory nature was evident in the kitchen where she prepared a vast array of specialties and was delighted to share them with others. Her warm heart, smile and graciousness were infectious. Mabel worked for Dr. Frederick Adams who was instrumental in encouraging her to attend the Apex School of Cosmetology where she received her certification. She was the successful proprietor of Mabel’s Beauty Salon for forty-two years. Her charm and expertise garnered loyal patronage. The jovial, familiar atmosphere of her salon was a great part of her success. Mabel’s customers were not only patrons, but also good friends. They loved her and she loved them. Not only did her customers, but was adored by the many friends of her children as well cherish her. To the end of her fruitful life, Mabel leaves to cherish fond memories: three sons, Ocam Jr., Gregory and Wayne; grandchild, Connie; great-grandchildren Wykeba and Sasha; great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Shirley Gray; sisters, Elizabeth Foster, Jessie Williams, Georgia Vincent and Mary Fowlkes; bothers, Samuel and George Edmonds; sisters-in-law, Alberta Gray, Ruth Edmonds and Betsy Edmonds; godchildren Wiley Edmonds and Regina Pullen; Just Cousins; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Tributes

Fredis Mabel Gray

April 21, 1923 - September 14, 2002