Brother John E. Gray, Jr., 96, of Grenada, passed away Friday, January 27, 2023 at his home surrounded by family.  The bittersweet passing of a remarkable and faithful servant that will leave a huge void in the hearts of all who knew him.  Oh, what a joyous reunion the Heavens must have experienced as he entered the gates and was reunited again with his bride of 73 years, a loving son, his parents, siblings and a host of other family members and friends.  In the opinion of his family, there was no greater servant than their beloved father and grandfather.  The outpouring of love and faith he had for the Lord reflected in everything he did.  Never a harsh or bitter word spoken, always preaching the gospel, full of hope and a heart filled with the Holy Spirit, a big loss for us left behind, but an amazing gain for the Heavens above.  He came to know the time he has anticipated and studied for, for so long and we are at peace knowing our precious Papaw/Dad is now standing before his almighty King and basking in the glow of the sun, walking hand in hand with Jesus as he whispers good deed my son, your mission is complete.

Some of his accomplishments during his time spent here on Earth included pastoring as a Baptist Minister for over 70 years, serving our country in World War II, graduating from Mississippi State University and obtaining a degree in Agriculture and serving as Superintendent of Education for the Grenada Schools from 1952-1960.  He was a member of the Southern Baptist Convention and NARFE(National Active and Retired Federal Employees) for his many years spent as a rural mail carrier.

He enjoyed spending his time reading the Bible, preaching, attending church, cheering on the Mississippi State Bulldogs, time spent with his family and eating.  He especially loved strawberry yogurt from Yogurt Express that he came to love so much.

John was born October 27, 1926 to the late John Ervin Gray, Sr. and Nannie Elizabeth Johnson Gray.  In addition to being preceded in death by his parents, he also rejoins hands with his wife, Dene Gray, son, Donald Gene Gray along with his three brothers, Billy Douglas Gray, Charles Ernest Gray and Paul Kenneth Gray as well as his sister, Audie Elizabeth "Polly" Gray Rocha.

Survivors include one son, Greg Gray(Sandy) of Grenada; five grandchildren, Randy Gray and Laura Gray Bloodworth, both of Grenada; Derek Gray of Tampa, FL; Elizabeth Gray Miller(Rob) of Kalispell, MT and Donald Gene "Chip" Gray, II of the Jefferson community; six great-grandchildren, Justin, Devin and Katelyn Bloodworth, all of Grenada; Rileigh and Elliott Miller of Kalispell, MT and Camdon Gray of Tampa, FL.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to those who helped care for their loved one, Dr. Roberts and his staff for many years of dedicated care, UMMC Grenada, Grenada Living Center, Accentcare Home Health and Adoration Hospice.  The care you all provided did not go unnoticed and we are grateful for all you did to help prepare him and the family for this transition.  God bless you all!

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM Saturday, February 4, 2023 at the Liberty Baptist Church in the Jefferson community of Carroll County with Rev. Aaron Chapman, Dr. Joey Faulk and Rev. Gary Tanner officiating.  Interment will follow in the Gore Springs Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the hour of service Saturday at Liberty Baptist Church.

Pallbearers will be Devin Bloodworth, Justin Bloodworth, Chip Gray, Randy Gray, Jeremy Rocha and John Stevens.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com .

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada, (662-307-2694).