Obituary: Willie Gray

Willie Gray

May 16, 1945 – July 3, 2025

La Grange – Surrounded by the love and presence of his family, Willie Dwight Gray, 80, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Born in Wayne County on May 16, 1945, Willie was the son of the late William Bruce Gray and Tessie Thompson Gray Rouse.

In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Jean Gray; brothers, Bill Gray and Phillip Lloyd Gray; nephew, Ryan Gray; and nieces, Amanda Dawn Gray and Wendy Newcomb.

With reverence and pride, Willie was honored to be a veteran of the United States Army. Remaining a devoted patriot throughout his life, his love for this country never wavered.

A lifelong farmer, Willie was known for his strong work ethic, often working from dawn until dusk. Deeply rooted in his community, he was always ready to lend a hand to neighbors. Skilled in both welding and mechanics, he could make almost anything run again. He not only maintained his own equipment but often repaired that of others, ensuring everything ran smoothly. If Willie was fixing something, you could count on it being done right, no matter how long it took. Known for his calm demeanor and steady temperament, Willie was laid-back and rarely lost his cool.

A service to celebrate Willie’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Rouse Funeral Home, with Pastor Aaron Bissette officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at the Gray Family Cemetery.

Willie is survived by his sister, Annie Bruce Newcomb; brothers, Bobby Gray and John Gray; niece, Robin Davenport; and nephews, Randy Gray, Chris Gray, Bobby Gray Jr., and Michael Gray.

Online condolences may be shared at www.rousefh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.