Passing of a Patriarch

Ryan, along with five of his cousins were pallbearers.
The Gray family at the graveside service at the Lehi City Cemetery. Grandpa Gray is buried close to Tyler.

Military honors.

Presenting the American Flag to Grandma Gray.

Elder Kyle Gray with Grandpa and Grandma Gray on our way home from picking him up at the airport, upon returning from his mission. This was taken only twelve days before Grandpa passed away. What a treasured picture!

Russell's father passed away on Monday evening, February 2, 2009. He was such a good man and he will truly be missed by many. Following is Russell's dad's obituary.

John "Jack" James Gray, age 86, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family, after a valiant battle with cancer on February 2, 2009.

He was born on October 24, 1922 in Lehi, Utah, the son of James Bertrum and Genevieve Thomas Gray.

He graduated from Lehi High School. He married Darlene Wathen on April 10, 1946 in the Salt Lake Temple. They are the parents of eight children. Jack served in the Army during WWII in the Pacific Theater, participating in three major battles and was awarded the Bronze Star. He worked for 36 years at Geneva Steel. He was a good cook, loved gardening, and was an avid BYU Cougar fan. He was a devoted care giver to his wife, loved his grandchildren and was always a great provider. Jack, along with Darlene served as a temple worker in the Provo Temple.

Survived by his sweetheart Darlene and eight children: Johnny (Mary) Gray, Lehi, Gordon Gray, Lehi, Carol (John) Allred, Lehi, Russell (Judy) Gray, Orem, Bert (Becky) Gray, Lehi, Bill (Jennifer) Gray, Lehi, Kathleen (Chris) Chaney, Alexandria, Virginia, Karen (Lance) Patterson, Portage, Utah, 38 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 10 brothers and sisters. Funeral services will be Friday, February 6, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. in the Lehi 2nd Ward LDS Chapel, 300 North 495 East. Family and friends may call Thursday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. at Wing Mortuary, 118 E. Main, Lehi and one hour prior to service at the church. Interment, Lehi City Cemetery. Online guest book at wingmortuary.com.

The family would like to express their thanks to 1st Choice Hospice, and especially Merry, Don, Jason and Amy for all their loving care.