Jesus said that where your money is, there you heart will be also. (Matthew 6:21).
There can be no doubt that the Gray family's heart has long been with Jesus' command, that the Church make obedient disciples of all nations. (Matthew 28:17-20)
In Jim's passing, in lieux of sending
flowers, the family invites you to join their hearts by making a
donation to Gospel Ambition.
Jim Gray's Obituary
James (Jim) Arthur Gray passed away on January 10, 2024,
surrounded by his family, six months after his diagnosis of
pancreatic cancer.
Jim is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 57 years, Letha Jannick Gray; his three daughters and their spouses Kylan and Kristie Kirkendall of Springfield, Missouri; Joe and Kim Graber of Texarkana, Texas; and Tim and Kathy Craig of Shelbina, Missouri. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren: Stephanie, Ashley, Jeremy, Preston, Kaedren, Kian, Koen, Lauren, and Alex and one great grandchild, Adeline.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, A.J. and Edythe Morrison Gray; brother, Dennis Gray; and sister, Jennifer Gray McGinty.
Jim graduated from Belle High School where he was first place trumpet and later the band director. He loved music throughout his life. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Missouri in Columbia.
He worked as a journalist for the Jefferson City News Tribune. He also worked in Human Resources for Phelps County Regional Medical Center, United States Geological Survey, and the National Park Service in Harrison, Arkansas before retiring.
Jim enjoyed being in nature and traveling. He hiked over 300 miles in northwest Arkansas. He looked forward to canoe trips with his family and group bus tours with Letha. Letha and Jim reached their goal of visiting all 50 states by their 50th wedding anniversary. They also enjoyed several trips outside the US including trips to Israel, Ireland, and Africa.
Jim was highly invested in the lives of others. As a member
of Gideon's, he wanted to spread the Good News of Jesus, praying
for the lost and distributing Bibles. Jim was a member of the
Lion's Club, and served as President. Throughout the years, he
served his church as elder, deacon, teacher, on the evangelism
committee and in many other ways.
