Obituary: Ronald Gray
Ronald “Ron” Gray, 81, found eternal rest on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. Ron was born in Wayne County to the late Robert “Red” Gray and Mildred Williams Gray on February 20, 1945.
Ron served his country faithfully and valiantly as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War, earning two Bronze Stars for his service. Following his military service, he continued his education at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and accounting. He began his professional career as a medical auditor with Blue Cross Blue Shield and ultimately retired as chief executive officer of Greensboro Pathology.
With a naturally inquisitive mind, Ron maintained a lifelong interest in business, finance, and the world around him. He kept abreast of current events, enjoyed listening to National Public Radio, and followed the insights and talks of Warren Buffett. He was always interested in learning more and understanding not only what was happening, but why.
Ron believed in keeping both his mind and body active. He exercised at Champions Gym several times each week and was an avid cyclist. Through the years, he rode regularly with his cycling buddies in the Seyboro and Big Wheel groups. For Ron, riding a bicycle was about more than exercise. It offered the opportunity to be outdoors, cover miles of countryside, challenge himself, and enjoy the friendship and camaraderie of those who rode alongside him. The miles traveled together brought both good exercise and good company.
That same appreciation for the outdoors could be seen in Ron’s love of photography. An accomplished amateur photographer, he had an exceptional eye for finding and documenting the beauty of nature through his lens. His photography reflected both skill and the spirit of a man who genuinely noticed the world around him. His travels took him throughout North Carolina, and he especially enjoyed trips to Washington State to visit his stepson, Rob and wife Brenda. A lover of classical music and smooth contemporary jazz, his radio was constantly tuned to the Watercolors station satellite radio.
At home, Ron enjoyed settling in with Rachel to watch television. His interests were varied, but he was especially drawn to medical and legal dramas and programs with interesting characters and storylines. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, In the Heat of the Night, and Suits were among the shows he enjoyed, providing many evenings of entertainment and relaxation together.
Ron enjoyed the company of good friends and neighbors, whether gathering for conversation, sharing a meal at a favorite restaurant, or simply spending time together. Whether lunch outings with friends Bill and Phyllis or time spent with their neighbor, Carol, they were all sure to have a great time. He and Rachel valued these friendships deeply and appreciated their companionship through the ordinary moments of life.
Deeply connected with his family, Ron maintained a close relationship with his siblings, cousins, and their families. He was an excellent father to his children and devoted husband to Rachel.
A service to honor Ron’s life will be held by the graveside at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at the Gray Family Cemetery. Ron’s family will receive friends following the service.
Ron is survived by his wife, Rachel Moore Gray; three children, Kevin Gray, Brooke Kittrell and Melanie Mays; five grandchildren, Eris, Veronica, Cheyenne, Jaelyn and Dakota; step-son, Pat Moore; brother-in-law, Bob Gay; and a special cousin, Randy Gray. In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his two sisters, Julia Gay and Eleanor Gray; brother, Jerry Gray; and a step-son, Rob Moore.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials to honor Ron’s life may be directed to Kriquette’s Kidz, P.O. Box 11062, Goldsboro, NC 27532. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
