Greg Gray

Mr. Greg Gray, age 72, passed away Monday, September 1, 2025.

Mr. Gray was born January 23, 1953, in Vincennes, Indiana, son of the late David Gray and Jacqueline “Jackie” MaryAnn Thorne Gray.

Mr. Gray proudly served our nation in the United States Navy, a commitment that reflected the deep sense of duty and service that would define his life. He would later go on to serve two meaningful terms as president of the Polk County Historical Society, where his passion for preserving local heritage left a lasting mark.

A steadfast guardian of history, Mr. Gray played a vital role in the restoration of the Historic Vanwert Church and devoted himself to documenting and caring for the cemeteries of Polk County. Through tireless fundraising and hands-on involvement, he helped ensure these monuments would be protected for generations to come. His love for history extended to genealogical research, a pursuit to which he dedicated countless hours. His efforts not only preserved the stories of the past but helped connect families to their roots. Greg was a proud papermaker for Alton Boxboard, Jefferson Smurfit Corporation, and Caraustar Industries. 

Beyond his public contributions, Mr. Gray’s greatest devotion was to his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, and a deeply devoted grandfather. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he made sure they always felt his love.

Mr. Gray leaves behind a powerful legacy of service, dedication, and love. He touched the lives of many, and his presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Gray is preceded in death by a brother, David Gray.

Mr. Gray is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-three years, Mrs. Brenda Nelson Gray; dearly loved children: Laura Cox and her husband, Jason, and Davy Gray and his wife, Jolee; grandchildren: Ramplee Gray, and Bex Gray; siblings: Jeff Gray, Bill Gray, Ken Gray, and Kathy McCary; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial services to honor his life will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM, in the chapel of Smith & Miller Funeral Home. 

Mr. Gray's family will receive friends, also on Saturday at the funeral home, from 10:00 AM until the service hour. 

The Smith & Miller Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Greg Gray.