Thomas G. Gray

Thomas G. “Tom” Gray, son of Robert Roy Gray and Bessie (Breeden) Gray, was born February 11, 1925 in Simpson, IL.

He departed this life Tuesday evening, May 30, 2006, at 10:35 PM at Massac Memorial Hospital in Metropolis, IL.
At the time of his passing, Tom had attained the age of 81 years 3 months & 19 days.

Tom was united in marriage to Virginia L. (Terry) on March 14, 1947 at the Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Together, they enjoyed over 59 years of marriage.

In addition to his wife, Tom is survived by: A Son – Terry & Lida Gray of Mooresville, NC; 4 Daughters - Margaret & John Tanner of Simpson, IL; Nancy & Gary Graham of Cincinnati, OH, Cara & Steve Crabb of Herod, IL, Dena & Steve Newcomb of Denton, TX; 26 Grandchildren; 49 Great Grandchildren; a Sister – Mildred & Ira Victor Newton of Aurora, CO; a Brother – Hayward L. & Janet Gray of Dallas, TX; Several Nieces & Nephews.

In addition to his Parents, Tom was preceded in death by: A Great Grandson – Tommy Wyatt Snell & A Brother – Robert Roy Gray.

Tom was a graduate of the Vienna High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Pacific Theater of operation during World War II. He received a bronze battle star.

Tom was a farmer. He also worked as a carpenter and later as a contractor. Tom was instrumental in the construction of the Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and had taught Sunday School. Tom & Virginia were involved in missions work in Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, and Texas, as well as volunteer foreign missionaries in Honduras and Mexico. Tom enjoyed memorizing poetry and bible passages. He could quote from memory the entire Sermon on the Mount. Tom’s favorite poem was “Thanatopsis” by William Cullen Bryant.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday afternoon, June 2, 2006, at 2 PM at the Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian Church near Simpson, IL. Interment will be in the Gilead Cemetery. Friends may call after 5 PM Thursday at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. The body will lie-in-state from 12 Noon – 2 PM Friday at the church.
Memorials may be made to the New Liberty Church (Building Fund).