Former Prof. Sally Gray Dies at 78

March 14, 2012

Sally Hall Gray, who was an economics professor at DePauw University from 1965 through 1979 and was retired senior judge of the Putnam County Court, died unexpectedly at her Greencastle residence on Tuesday, March 13. She was 78 years old. (photos: at right, Sally Gray in 1981; middle image - 2008; below right - 1965)

In 2008, Judge Gray was honored as the Putnam County Community Foundation's first-ever "Woman Philanthropist of the Year" and the Foundation's 2010 "Spirit of Philanthropy" award. She was named 2005's Greater Greencastle Chamber of Commerce "Citizen of the Year."

Gray, who earned her J.D. from Indiana University School of Law, was the first female judge of the Putnam County Superior Court. She served the county and state as judge for 24 years.

Her long list of contributions to the community include founding a local organization which works to prevent substance abuse, the Prevention, Intervention and Education Coalition. She was also instrumental in the creation of Putnam County's Community Corrections Office and Substance Abuse Treatment Program and co-founded the PIE Coalition. Additionally, she was a founding member of the Governor's Commission for a Drug Free Indiana and served as the commission's judicial representative. The judge also established an endowment at the Community Foundation that supports local substance abuse treatments programs. Gray also served on the board of directors of the Putnam County Museum.

Judge Gray taught at the National Judicial College, and served as a member of the National Drug Control Strategy Panel.

"Sally Gray has been a driving force and key to much success at the Putnam County Museum, but this is only the tip of the iceburg," said Denise Sigworth, president of the Putnam County Community Foundation, as the organization honored the retired judge last year. "She gives her time, talent and treasure while leading others by example and serving as an inspiration to other community donors and activists."