Vote New Way with Serena General Sessions Criminal Court, Div. 7
Serena Gray
Early Voting: July 17–Aug. 1, 2026
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Shelby County – Meet Magistrate Gray

Prepared...Professional...Passionate...Memphis born and raised, Serena Gray has dedicated her career to serving Shelby County for two decades as an educator, assistant public defender, and Magistrate. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to fairness, integrity, and the belief that justice must be accessible to all.

A graduate of White Station High School, Gray went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, her Master of Arts from Tennessee State University, and her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan Law School. Her academic and professional journey has always been guided by a deep connection to her family, community, and a desire to serve it with excellence.

Serena Gray
Serena Gray with family

Family

Gray’s roots, community and family are embedded within the fabric of everything she does. She is the daughter of Janice James (Hamilton High School graduate) and the late Jerome James (Army Veteran); fiancée of Derrick Suggs (Central High School graduate); and proud mother of six-year-old Peyton. As the eldest of six siblings, she has long embraced leadership, accountability, and compassion, values that continue to guide her work today.

Community engagement collage

Community

Before pursuing her legal career, Gray taught English and coached Boys and Girls Track and Field at her alma mater, White Station High School. She also served as an adjunct professor at Southwest Community College and Lemoyne Owen College, continuing her commitment to education and mentorship. She temporarily departed Memphis to attend law school and pursue her dream to become an attorney.

Upon the completion of law school, Gray returned home, where she would resume coaching as a volunteer coach for the Boys and Girls Track Teams at White Station High School from 2012 until 2020. She also found her next rewarding career in the criminal justice system. She has served Shelby County as an assistant public defender for Shelby County, assistant federal defender for the Western District of Tennessee, and now as a Magistrate for Shelby County.

Professional & Community Affiliations

  • Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
  • Memphis Bar Association
  • Former Member of the Federal Bar Association
  • Memphis Bar Association Fellow
  • Former Board President (Memphis Region Chapter), University of Tennessee, Knoxville Alumni Association
Serena Gray portrait
Why?

In each role, Gray has worked relentlessly to uphold the United States and Tennessee Constitutions and balance the scales of justice. In her current role as a Magistrate, when she takes to the bench, her goal is to administer justice with a side of common sense. Gray is an adamant believer of treating all who come before her with dignity and respect.

Her experience across the justice system gives her a clear understanding of what works, what doesn’t, and what must change. She is prepared to do the work; professional on the bench; and passionate about the law.

VOTER INFO

Register

Confirm registration status early and make sure your address is current for early voting July 17–Aug. 1, 2026.

Plan Your Vote

Map your polling place, bring required ID, and vote early if you can to avoid long lines.

Get Involved

Volunteer for call time, canvassing, and community forums. Every conversation moves us forward.