Charles Joseph "Joe" Gray, 1943 - 2025, passed away peacefully on Oct. 7, 2025. He was born and raised in Winona, Mississippi, to Zane and Merle Gray. Joe was a man of great stature, in every sense of the word. Following high school, he earned a football scholarship to attend the University of Mississippi, where a knee injury would abruptly set him on a new path: one which took him across the country and through time. Though, not before bringing Joe to Texas, and into the loving arms of his first wife, Peggy Flowers.
After welcoming three children into the world, life set Joe and Peggy on different paths, and in 1974 Joe met Kaye Drake. Shortly thereafter, the two were married and spent the years traveling and enjoying time with family and friends. Following a tumultuous period where Kaye entered memory care, Joe remained faithfully devoted to her and their marriage.
His true ministry, however, was in helping others. Joe had a gift for listening without judgement and offering wisdom with grace. He was salt of the earth, and those who were lucky enough to know him as a friend can attest that his life was one of true service, laughter and heart. When he wasn't working for others or for himself, Joe relished the simple joys of life: a good football game, time with family, and the companionship of his rescue dog, Punkin. He will be remembered for his warmth and wisdom, kindness, quick wit, and his smooth-talking southern drawl.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, Zane and Merle Gray; wife, Peggy Flowers; brother, James Gray; sister, Glenda Gray; grandson, Teagan Drake; and granddaughter, Lindsey Gray. Joe is survived by his spouse, Kaye Gray, sister, Jeanie Gray; daughter, Dedra Gray; two sons, Kevin and Kyle Gray; stepson, Darby Drake; stepdaughter, Stacie Drake; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless others whom he loved dearly.
Joe's faith, love and laughter live on through us all, reminding everyone to smile a little more often.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at noon in the Spiritual Care Center of the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center, 12477 Merit Dr, Dallas, TX 75251.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Faith Caring Fund.
