Imogene Anderson McCray

Ruth Imogene Anderson McCray, lovingly known as “Nana,” passed away peacefully at her home in Abingdon, Virginia, on July 2, 2026, at the age of 93. 

Imogene was born on April 5, 1933, in Saltville, Virginia, to Luther David Anderson and Nannie Pearl Musick Anderson. From an early age, she embodied the values of faith, hard work, and compassion that would guide her throughout her life.

 To know Imogene was to know elegance, kindness, and unwavering faith. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

 She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Warren McCray; her beloved son, Jeffrey McCray; her parents, Luther David Anderson and Nannie Pearl Musick Anderson; and her siblings, R.D. Anderson, Mildred Lee, Norris Anderson, and W.V. Anderson.

 She is survived by her daughter, Amelia McCray; her daughter-in-law, Carol McCray; her cherished granddaughters, Jessica Buchanan (Eric), Jennifer Puckett (Andy), and Molly McCray; and her three beloved great-grandsons, Whitten Puckett, Camden Puckett, and Tanner Buchanan. She is also survived by her sister, Katherine Godsey (Jimmy); her sister-in-law, Dot Long; her nieces and nephews, Dana Duncan Moore (Gerald), Donald McCray (Carol), Paul McCray, and her special nephew, David Anderson; along with many other beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends. 

A faithful member of the Abingdon Church of Christ, Imogene lived her faith each day through her kindness, generosity, and servant’s heart.

 Alongside her husband, Warren, she proudly co-owned McCray Construction and Abingdon Tile Company,and many other business ventures, building not only successful businesses but lifelong friendships throughout the community. She later owned and operated an interior design business and was a proud member of the American Society of Interior Designers. Her eye for beauty, love of decorating, and timeless sense of style were evident in everything she did.

 Imogene found great joy in serving others. She volunteered for many years in the gift shop at Johnston Memorial Hospital and was an active volunteer in her church’s BEAR Program, lovingly helping make teddy bears for hospitalized children. Whether through her time, talents, or caring heart, she found countless ways to brighten the lives of others with kindness, compassion, and love.

 She found joy in cooking for family, friends, and church fellowships, tending to her flowers and gardens, decorating her home, shopping, and traveling. She and Warren took great pride in their beautiful gardens, which were featured on local garden tours for others to enjoy. 

Above all, Imogene’s greatest joy was her family. To them, she was simply Nana—the heart of the family, the keeper of traditions, and the one who made every holiday and gathering feel special. Her home was always filled with love, laughter, good food, and an open door. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, and her unconditional love, quiet wisdom, and steadfast faith will continue to inspire generations to come.

 The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her in-home caregivers for the exceptional love, compassion, and devoted care they provided to Imogene. Their kindness made it possible for her to remain in the comfort of her own home until the very end, a gift for which her family will be forever grateful. The family also extends their sincere appreciation to the many special visitors, lifelong friends, neighbors, and family members who spent time with her, shared stories, offered encouragement, and reminded her how deeply she was loved. Your friendship, prayers, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to Nana but to our entire family, and we will always be thankful.

 The family will receive friends on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Abingdon Church of Christ. A celebration of Imogene’s life will begin at 2:00 p.m., with interment immediately following at Knollkreg Memorial Park.

 Pallbearers: David Anderson, Whitten Puckett, Camden Puckett, Tanner Buchanan, Eric Buchanan, and Andy Puckett. Honorary Pallbearers: Jimmy Godsey, L. J. Doss, and the members of the Abingdon Church of Christ. 

Though our hearts are deeply saddened by her passing, we find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with Warren, Jeffrey, and so many loved ones who have gone before her. Her greatest masterpiece was never the beautiful homes she designed—it was the beautiful family she nurtured, loved, and inspired. Her life was a gift, her love was a blessing, and her memory will remain in our hearts forever.