Jana S. (Gray) White

Jana S. (Gray) White, 74, passed away peacefully at home on March 4, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished so deeply. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, James Hoke, who died in 2020, with whom she shared many treasured years.

Born on May 4, 1951, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, Jana was the daughter of Marcell (Price) Gray and Maj. William Gray. From an early age she showed a bright curiosity, quiet determination, and a genuine love of learning. She graduated as Valedictorian of Lyman High School’s Class of 1969 in Florida, an accomplishment that reflected her lifelong commitment to excellence.

Jana devoted the most meaningful years of her life to raising her two children, a role she embraced with boundless love and gratitude. Being a mother was her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. Later she built a fulfilling career as a retail manager for Talbots, working in Massachusetts, Florida, and South Carolina. She combined her appreciation for style with her natural gift for encouraging others, helping countless women feel confident, strong, and beautiful.

Faith was the cornerstone of Jana’s life. A dedicated and joyful member of Bethlehem Bible Church in West Boylston, she participated in women’s Bible studies, served faithfully in the kitchen during church gatherings, and offered her time and heart wherever she was needed. Her kindness, compassion, and gentle servant’s spirit touched everyone who knew her. Her love for Jesus shone brightly through her love for others.

A passionate sports fan, Jana’s enthusiasm was contagious. She adored watching her children’s games and later followed her favorite teams, especially the Celtics and the Duke Blue Devils, with spirited devotion. Friends and family could count on her lively texts during every game, a tradition that brought laughter and connection.

Jana also found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved sharing a warm cup of coffee in good conversation and cherished the beauty of God’s creation, from fall foliage and mountain views to snow-covered trees. She delighted in filling her bird feeders and watching for cardinals and chickadees. A talented cook, she poured love into every meal and was especially proud of her award-winning chicken corn chowder. She expressed her creativity through decorating, turning each holiday into a warm, inviting celebration.

Above all, Jana’s greatest joy was her precious granddaughter and only grandchild, Ainsley. Their weekends together were filled with adventure—playgrounds, farms, pumpkin patches, hikes, hayrides, and always ice cream. The bond they shared was pure love and one of Jana’s greatest blessings.

She leaves behind her children, Sarah Clark and Benjamin White, her son-in-law Sean Clark, his sister Heather Clark, and her cherished granddaughter Ainsley Clark. She is also survived by her brother, Rick Gray, and his partner, Sue Grangel; her first husband and father of her children, Dr. Robert C. White; as well as many beloved friends and family members who will miss her dearly.