The Fanita Gray Scholarship is given in her name by her niece Eva Tully of Arlington, Virginia, to a graduating senior continuing his/her education in the areas of mathematics or science.

Fanita Gray was born in the Oklahoma Indian Territory in 1884. She lived in Oklahoma and Boston before moving to Chelmsford in 1928. Interestingly, one of Ms. Gray’s neighbors was noted Chelmsford historian George Parkhurst. Mr. Parkhurst also has a scholarship in his name awarded to a graduating senior as well. While living in Chelmsford, Ms. Gray and her family raised and sold poultry on their farm on High Street.

However, it is Fanita’s interest in education and teaching that inspired this scholarship. Ms. Gray always encouraged people to continue their education for as long as possible. In addition to being a strong educational advocate, Fanita was an accomplished pianist and painter. She put her passion and interest in education into practice by teaching piano to many students wherever she lived.

Ms. Gray was also an avid gardener. Her flower gardens were outstanding, with over 200 peonies and other flowers in full bloom during the summer.

Fanita’s experiences with farming, gardening and the arts showed her the importance of education, especially in the areas of science and mathematics. Her niece has established the Fanita Gray scholarship to perpetuate this passion for education.