Thomas H. Gray, Sr.

GRAY, Sr., Thomas H., age 89, of Dayton, OH, born November 12, 1929 in Gainsville, AL, one of five siblings, the angel of mercy gently sealed the eyes of Thomas Monday evening, November 19, 2018.

Thomas relocated to Dayton with his parents and siblings in 1944. He matriculated through the Dayton Public Schools, graduating in 1949 from Dunbar High School. In 1957, he married the love of his life — Loretta Wilson — and were married for 60 years becoming the parents of three beautiful children.                           

Thomas served his country admirably in the U. S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division (paratroopers) and was honorably discharged. In 1944, Thomas united with St. Luke on Western Avenue, under Rev. David V. Revere, where his mother was church secretary. He was a faithful, dependable member for 74 years, serving in many capacities, namely, Trustee, Culinary Committee, money changer, and an all-around helper. Thomas was employed at Defense Electronics Supply Center (DESC) as a cataloger for 38 years until his retirement. After retirement, he was a partner with Roger Brown’s Catering where he crafted his skills as a chef and fine dining. He was a quiet man of few words, with strong beliefs — he had no desire to be the center of attention. Thomas is best described by his kindness, gentleness, and willingness to help anyone. Thomas would often drive his former catering customers to doctor appointments, as far away as the Cleveland Clinic when no one else was available. Thomas loved fishing, yard work, and working in his garden. He also fondly made wine, jam, jelly, and peanut brittle. Thomas loved his family and was over-joyed with the time spent with grandson “AJ.”  He also loved his church as attested to by his many years of service.                                                         

Preceded in death by his parents, Page Gray and Elizabeth Maniece; wife, Loretta; sisters, Elizabeth Thomas and Mildred Ivey; brother, Page Gray.                                                   

He leaves to cherish and celebrate his legacy, devoted sons, Timothy Greene (Pamela), Thomas Gray Jr. (Donna), and Joseph Gray (Debra); loving daughter, Renee Crutcher (James); grandchildren, Aaron Crutcher, Deshaun, Dewan, Dequan, De’von, Dionte, Shaunika, Andrew, Thomas and David; great grandchildren, Jayla, Myla, Aubree, Noah, Kia, Kiayanna, and Kyree; nephew, Dallas Joiner; great niece, Agreta Mason; sister, Flaura Dammons; sister-in-law, Helen Gray; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and church family.

Funeral service will be held 9:30 am Friday, November 30, 2018 at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, 2262 N. Gettysburg Ave. Pastor Renard Allen officiating. Visitation 8:30 am at which time family will receive friends. Interment Dayton National Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home, Inc.

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