David Lee Gray

David Lee Gray passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family.

David was born on June 14, 1938, in Greene County, North Carolina, to Samuel McKinley Gray and Elsie Lee Hardy.  On April 9, 1965, David was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  His commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ would unite his family for eternity.

On July 3, 1959, David married Sara Ann Robinson.  Their posterity would later go on to joke that they could not comprehend how David could have won over a beauty like Sara.  Joking aside, their marriage was built on love, faith, service, and laughter.  On March 14, 1975, David and Sara were sealed for time and all eternity in the Washington D.C. Temple.

David never shied away from hard work, laboring with his parents on their farm until he joined the military.  He served our country in the U.S. Army for three years and was stationed overseas, returning home when his first daughter was born.  He later went on to obtain a bachelors in business from Atlantic Christian College, now Barton College.  He attended class for nine years at night, while working full-time to support his family.  As a result, he instilled in his posterity the importance of education.  With his quick mind and mastery of numbers, he worked as a purchasing manager in textiles, ultimately retiring from Collins & Aikman.  He also served on the board of Lenoir Memorial Hospital, now UNC Lenoir.

David’s strong faith and dedication led to his serving in many capacities in the Church, including those of Elders Quorum President, Bishop, Stake Executive Secretary, first counselor in the Kinston Stake Presidency, High Councilor, High Priest Group Leader, and Sunday School Teacher.  Notwithstanding his commitment to service in the Church and the community, David’s priority was always in the home, where he exemplified the roles of husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  

David’s first priority was his wife, Sara.  Many remarked on just how evident his love for her was, and he was devoted to seeing that she was cared for in her final days.  Throughout his life, his quick wit and humor were family favorites.  He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they all knew that they could go to “Papa” with any request, and he would always deliver.  David loved to keep an immaculate lawn, and he spent many hours working outdoors to maintain the beautiful exterior of his home.

David is survived by his daughters, Renee Manning (Dee) and Tammy Gray; his granddaughter, Heather Walston (Justin); his grandsons, Will Gray (Jaymie); Cameron Gray (Harley); Colin Gray (Emma); and his great-grandchildren, Lydia, Ryder, and Colt Walston.  He is also survived by his brother, S.M. Gray; his sisters, Shelba Poole (Frank) and Judy Croom.  He leaves behind many special nieces, nephews, and other cherished family members.

David has been joyfully reunited with his eternal companion, Sara Ann; his devoted parents, Samuel McKinley and Elsie Gray; and his beloved grandson, Joshua Hardy.

A private burial will take place on September 10, 2025.  A memorial service will be held later that day (September 10) at the Woodington Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 6:00 p.m.  David’s family will be receiving visitors following the service.  Flowers and condolences may be sent to Garner Funeral Home of Kinston.

His family members who remain on this side of the veil are grateful beyond words to be sealed to David for time and all eternity.  His unmatched legacy of faith and service will live on forever in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.