It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lonzo Donald Gray on October 15, 2024. While our hearts ache with grief, we also rejoice knowing he is in heaven, welcomed into the arms of Jesus. Born on April 10, 1931, to Nancy Ann Thomas Gray and Lonzo Victor Gray, Don was the eldest son of nine children and embraced the role of a leader within his family. Don lived a life filled with love, faith, and service.
Don married Norma Jean Bowlin Gray on June 16, 1950, and together they enjoyed 63 beautiful years of marriage filled with love and devotion. In her later years, he was devoted to Norma’s care, demonstrating unwavering love and commitment.
He was a proud veteran, serving in the Army, with the Second Armored Division “Hell on Wheels”, as a tank commander after being drafted on October 2, 1952. Stationed in Germany, he exemplified leadership and dedication during his service. A faithful follower of Christ, he attended Rio Hondo Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. Known for his joyful spirit, generous heart, and numerous acts of service to his beloved church and community, Don inspired all who knew him.
Don is survived by his daughter, Sharon Gray McGhee, and her husband, Donald McGhee. He is also survived by his three beloved grandchildren and six great grandchildren, who affectionately knew him as "Papa": Katie McGhee Livas and her husband, John, with their children, Emmie Gray and Averie Paige; Sarah McGhee McNallen and her husband, Brandon, with their children, Grayce Elizabeth and Whitley Ann; and Hayden Gray McGhee and his wife, Brooke, with their children, Clare Louise and Sheperd Lee. He is survived by two brothers, Richard Gray (Patty), Clarence Gray (Cruz) and three sisters, Elvie Ann Madafarri, Hattie Eldridge, Reatha Ricketson (Duane), in addition to many dearly loved nieces and nephews who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.
In his final days, Don was cared for by Cathy Pavon, a dear friend and LVN, to whom the family expresses heartfelt gratitude for her compassion and support. He was also deeply thankful to Adrianna "Diana" Trevino for over 25 years of dedicated service to the family as a caretaker and housekeeper.
Don touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting legacy of love and compassion. The family's faith is greater than their grief because of the blessed assurance given by his faith. He wanted everyone to know that he was headed to heaven to meet Jesus and he wished for his funeral to be a joyful celebration of a life well-lived, honoring the many blessings he experienced and shared with others.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 20th, from 6 PM to 8 PM at Heavenly Grace Funeral Home in La Feria, Texas. The funeral service will be held on Monday, October 21st, at 10 AM at The Bridge – Rio Hondo Baptist Church, with burial at Mont Meda Memorial Park to follow. Friends and family are invited to join in this joyful occasion, honoring the remarkable life of this beloved man.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Bridge – Rio Hondo Baptist Church “Cross Fund” in memory of Don’s last project.
In his own words Don said, “When I take my last breath, I know it will be a “See you later” and not a “goodbye”.
