Born in Honolulu on September 9, 1920, Maris was the oldest of four children of Robert and Ethel Chillingworth. A graduate of Roosevelt High School and Armstrong College in Berkeley, she worked as an executive assistant to Congressman Joseph Farrington during the war years. Upon her return to Honolulu in 1944, she married Honolulu businessman, Richard H. Gray, former owner of Honsador. Maris supported many arts and cultural institutions, including The Honolulu Academy of Arts, the Honolulu Symphony, and the Garden Club of Honolulu. A generous volunteer, Maris was devoted to many organizations, including Punahou, the Outdoor Circle, the Junior League, and Friends of Iolani Palace.

Predeceased by her husband, Richard H. and son, Richard D., Maris is survived by three daughters, Sharon Solmssen, Diane Gray, Deborah Gray Sou; two brothers, Sherwood and Mehrtens Chillingworth; sister, Phyllis Garrett: ten grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.