Meredith Ann Gray spent her life in service to others. An educator, world traveler, and public servant, Meredith believed deeply in equitable access for all.
Through a planned gift to the Free Care Fund at UPMC Children’s, Meredith affirmed this belief by committing funds to ensure children receive care regardless of their family’s ability to pay.
Born at Sewickley Hospital, Meredith grew up in the Pittsburgh region and graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1965. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Malone University in Ohio and joined the Peace Corps upon graduation. While serving with the Peace Corps, Meredith volunteered first in Malaysia, working with the Public Health Ministry. She later volunteered in Thailand, teaching English to high schoolers.
Thereafter, her work as an educator continued in Iran, where she taught English to Army cadets, and later in Pittsburgh, where she taught English to Vietnamese refugees.
Meredith’s Commitment to Community
In 1981, Meredith earned a master’s degree in teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) from the University of Hawaii. Returning to Pittsburgh, she went on to teach at Bidwell Training Center on the North Side for more than a decade. She then worked for the City of Pittsburgh for 13 years, retiring in 2020.
A generous, kind individual, Meredith gave herself fully to the causes that mattered most to her. In 2024, she extended her commitment to the community with a gift to UPMC Children’s Free Care Fund through her estate. By making her gift during her lifetime, Meredith ensured her generosity would strengthen the hospital’s ability to care for future generations.
This past December, Meredith passed away after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Her planned gift continues her lifelong dedication to others and helps ensure children receive the care they need, regardless of circumstance.
We celebrate Meredith for a life and legacy guided by purpose.
Meredith’s generosity is a powerful reminder that a legacy of care can continue touching lives long into the future. Through thoughtful planning, you can create that same lasting impact.