In Loving Memory of John Gray

John led a life of kindness, loyalty, faith, generosity, humor, and love. He passed from this life to his eternal home peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 9, 2026. John Gray was born on September 7, 1932, to Dick and Catherine Gray in Gatesville, Texas.

John is survived by his wife, Nancy Gray; daughter, Elizabeth McGovern (Jay); grandchildren, Wendi Spence (Matt), Tim McGovern (Chelsea), Andrew McGovern (Kelly), Joe McGovern (Amy), and Patrick McGovern (Amanda); as well as great-grandchildren, Conlan, Finnegan, Silis, Rory, Bo, Phoebe, and Elliott McGovern. He was preceded in death by his son, Tom Gray, and his parents, Dick and Catherine Gray.

John “Papa” Gray will be remembered for his service to our country in the United States Air Force, involvement in his community, dedication to his alma mater (Gig ‘em, Aggies!) and, above all, devotion to his family.

He could always be counted on as a source of sound advice, a warm hug, and a loving welcome. He was passionate about living honorably, and he never missed an opportunity to share his gifts of knowledge with his children and grandchildren. John was “Papa” to many: not only his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, but also to the many friends who stopped by throughout the seasons of life.

John will be remembered for the ways he influenced, supported, and helped raise those around him, both within his family and throughout his broader community. He leaves behind an immeasurably valuable legacy through the lives he touched and the generations he influenced.

Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service for John at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 4, at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, located at 9974 IH 37 Access Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78410.

A memorial service will be held the following Monday, September 7, at 2:00pm at The Mirador, 5857 Timbergate Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78414.