The death of Chester Ray Gray has cast a soft shadow over the peaceful town of Cecilia, Kentucky. Chester lived an 80-year life, and those who were fortunate enough to know him remember him with gratitude and affection as a revered car mechanic and committed member of Gospel Way Baptist Church.
December 11, 1943 – January 31, 2024: Chester Ray Gray
Chester Ray Gray—or “Ray” as he was lovingly known—made an unforgettable impression on Cecilia after being born to Hobert and Louise Grimes Gray on December 11, 1943. Those who knew him found inspiration in his journey, which was filled with devotion to his profession and steadfast faith. He died peacefully at Jewish Hospital in Louisville on January 31, 2024, but his impact will live on long after he has left this world.
A Skilled Auto Mechanic and Faithful Servant
Ray’s hands were a reflection of his expertise as a car mechanic, a career he pursued with fervor and attention to detail. His work came to represent dependability and trustworthiness in Cecilia’s close-knit community, where he gained respect for his expertise. Outside of the garage, Ray was a dedicated member of Gospel Way Baptist Church, where he found peace and purpose while also making a spiritual impact on the community.
A Life Well-Lived and a Love Eternal
A thread of love and devotion ran through Ray’s life, and his cherished wife, Ruby Campbell Gray, was an ever-present thread of joy. Until her passing, they journeyed through life together, sharing its highs and lows. The deep bond that characterized their union is evidenced by the lingering echoes of their eternal love.
Remembering Ray’s Roots and Family Ties
Cecilia was deeply ingrained in Ray’s life from the moment he was born. The passing of Ray brings him full circle to those who came before him, including his parents Hobert and Louise Gray, wife Ruby, daughter Tracy Carby, sisters Alma Klingelsmith, Freda Bragg, Dorothy McIntyre, Patsy Gray, brothers Dean and Danny Gray.
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Ray left behind a brother, Freddy (Kathy) Gray of Stephensburg, KY, two sisters, Wanda (Wilford) Hatfield and Kay (Owen) Peters also of Stephensburg, KY, and a goodbye to this world. As they mourn Ray’s loss together, his loved ones hold fast to the strength and love he left behind.
Funeral Services: A Communal Farewell
In honor of Ray’s life, the citizens of Cecilia will come together on Saturday, February 3, 2024. At 2:00 pm, funeral services will begin at Manakee Funeral Home in Elizabethtown, KY, with Rev. Ron Lewis officiating. Next, Ray will be laid to rest at the White Mills Community Cemetery in White Mills, Kentucky, following a moving moment of goodbye.
Visitation: Sharing Memories and Finding Comfort
Visitation will be held at the Manakee Funeral Home in Elizabethtown on Saturday from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Friends and family are welcome to share memories and offer condolences during this time. This is a time for community members to come together in memory of a loved one and offer comfort to one another as they grieve.
Cecilia’s Tribute to Ray’s Legacy
Chester Ray Gray’s legacy becomes an enduring thread in the fabric of the town’s history as Cecilia prepares to bid farewell to one of its own. The sadness is real, but it gives way to joy as we remember a life well-lived, one that was full of love, devotion, and steadfast family and community.
Fond Farewell: A Community United in Grief
As they grieve together, the Cecilia community finds strength in remembering Ray for his kindness, knowledge, and warmth. The impact of a life devoted to service, family, and faith is evident in the enduring legacy of Chester Ray Gray, which continues to resonate with those who were fortunate enough to know him.
