James H. Gray, Jr.

JAMES H. GRAY, JR.

A Life Well Lived

On Saturday, September 26, 2026, God, in His infinite wisdom, sent an angel of mercy to call James H. Gray, Jr. from labor to reward. Surrounded by God’s love, grace, and peace, he departed this life as a beloved father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, friend, and faithful servant of God. Born on October 16, 1929, in Smithfield, VA, he was the son of the late James H. Gray, Sr. and Alice T. Gray.

After completing his service in the U. S. Army, he was briefly employed at the Smithfield Packing Plant. He subsequently worked as a skilled Pipefitter at Newport News Shipbuilding for more than 20 years. As a member of Christian Home BaptistChurch, he attended Sunday School and served in the Men of Iron Ministry until declining health limited his participation.

James was a source of kindness and strength whose generous spirit touched everyone he met. Devoted to family and friends, he was always willing to help those in need. His warm smile and gentle nature brought comfort and joy to all who knew and loved him. Throughout his 96 years, he shared his love, wisdom, and steadfast faith, finding joy in church worship. His life reflected enduring faith, perseverance, and God’s grace and mercy.

He was preceded in death by wife, Pauline Clarke Gray; daughter Sheila G. Ward; son Karlos O. Gray; siblings, Alice G. Prather, Charlotte G. Hopkins, Clarence D. Gray, Willie T. Gray, Walter T. Gray, Franklin D. Gray, Randolph T. Gray and Elton E. Gray. Despite these profound losses, he remained a pillar of strength and resilience, teaching his family the importance of cherishing every moment and loving unconditionally.

His memory will fondly be treasured by his daughter, Phyllis G. Melton (Carl); brother, Earl S. Gray, Sr. (Gloria) of Jacksonville, FL; sister, Joyce G. Brown of Suffolk, VA; grandchildren, Denise M. Edwards (LaVor), Angela M. Clarke (Steven), Renauda W. Thomas, Karlos J. Ward, Rachel W. Jones (Milton), Desi E. Ward, and Rita A. Ward; great-grandchildren, Caleb, Breanna, Alyssa, Carly, Antwan, Nadia, Nyla, Amari, Cory, Raydeana, Joi, Heaven, Sir, Maliyah, Jaxson, Grayson, Kamiyah, Cassidy and Nolah; nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.

On Friday, October 02, 2026 viewing will take place from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 1:00pm on Saturday, October 03, 2026 at Christian Home Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the Mt. Sinai Baptist Church Cemetery ,14165 Racetrack Rd., Ivor. Please keep the Gray Family in your prayers.