It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Dorothy Grey Box. Dorothy Grey was born on June 9, 1931, in Memphis, TN, and was adopted into the Pickens family by Grey and Johnnie “Dolly” Pickens. She departed this life at the age of 93 on October 23, 2024, in the comfort of her home surrounded by family.
Dorothy Grey married her beloved husband, Billy Box, on August 14, 1950, and they were blessed with two children, Michael Grey Box and LeAnne Box Lester, who were their pride and joy. She was a long-time employee of the Winona Public School system and devoted her life to serving our Lord faithfully in everything she did. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Winona where she was active in many ministries; two of her most favored being a Sunday School teacher and the pianist/organist.
Dorothy Grey is survived by her two children, Mike (Carrie) Box, Winona, MS, and LeAnne (Steve) Lester, Winona, MS; three grandchildren, Kade (Mallory) Lester, Grenada, MS, Logan (Amber) Box, Starkville, MS, and Carlie (Jeremy) Boyette, Winona, MS; and 9 great grandchildren who will forever cherish the memories they shared together. She is preceded in death by her father, Robert Grey Pickens, her mother, Johnnie Ware Pickens, and her husband, Billy Box.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 25 at First Baptist Church in Winona, with burial following in Oakwood Cemetery. Dr. Tim Mims and Rev. Jay Anderson will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Bruce Branch, Dave Pratt, Nathan Crenshaw, Mike Jones, Bobby Beckwith, and Milton Robinson.
Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 25 at Oliver Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions can be made to First Baptist Church of Winona, P.O. Box 408, Winona, MS 38967.
Always, always a classy Godly Christian lady. Never once had a bad word toward anybody! I’ll always cherish growing up and knowing her as my Aunt Dorthy Grey. There’s not a doubt that I’ll see her and Uncle Billy again in our heavenly home. My love and prayers goes out to Lee Ann , Mike and their families.
I love y’all!
Bobby Wray
I am so sorry to hear about Mrs. Box. I worked with her many years ago and she taught me so much. She was so kind and patient. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her knew how much she loved her family. Such great memories! Love in Christ, Deborah
So sorry to hear of Ms. Dorothy passing. My prayers are with the family.
LeAnn, Mike so sorry to here of your mother’s passing she was a very kind woman always had a smile may peace and comfort be with you and your families during this trying time
Dorothy was as beautiful inside as she was lovely inside. I best knew her as our organist at First Baptist Church as she accompanied our Youth Choir. What a talent she had! She will be missed!
I send love & prayers to all her family at this time! Wanda Hurt Warren
Sincerest condolences. Mrs. Box was a beautiful lady and had such a sweet , caring smile.