Published on December 20, 2024 9:02 am
Last Updated on December 20, 2024 9:03 am
Rev. David B Gray, a beloved Southern Baptist pastor, husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on December 17, 2024.
Born on July 14, 1941, to Dr. William A. Gray and Gladys M Stearns Gray, he grew up with a deep love for God and all His creations, particularly horses and dogs. Even as a young boy, his kind and compassionate heart reflected his future calling to ministry. He was joined in marriage to his cherished wife, Rosemary (Bahrns) Gray in 1992 and together they built a life grounded in faith, love, and service to others.
Along with his wife, David is survived by twin children: John David Gray (wife Carrie) and Julie (Gray) Davis (husband Mike). Step-children Duane Martin (wife Juliana) and Todd Martin (wife Sonja). David found his greatest joy in his growing family. He was the proud grandfather of Chris Gilstrap (wife Sarah), Cody Gray (wife Lexi), Kimberly (Gilstrap) Crans (husband Henry), Clayton Gray (wife Heather), Katie (Gilstrap) Yendes (husband Matt), and Kendra (Gilstrap) Turnbull (husband James), Chloe Martin, Olivia Martin, and Anne Marie Burligameham. Along with his 15 great-grandchildren, he also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who cherished his wisdom, kindness, and humor.
Preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother and sister; and older sisters Patricia Gharst and Carolyn Joyce Kinder.
He is survived by his sister Jane Nelson (husband, John).
David faithfully served the Lord in ministry for over 60 years, primarily as pastor in churches across Illinois and Missouri.
His gift of never meeting a stranger made him a natural evangelist, sharing the love of Christ with everyone he encountered. He had an enduring passion for teaching and mentoring others in their faith journeys, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. David dedicated his life to making a difference in his community. His career reflected his passion for leadership and service. He held the esteemed position of Vice President at Campbellsville University in Campbellsville, Kentucky, where he contributed significantly to the institution’s growth and mission. David also served as President of Goodwill Industries, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, as well as Memphis, Tennessee. In these roles, he transformed lives by championing opportunities for education, employment, and empowerment, leaving a lasting legacy of hope and success. When he wasn’t busy serving others, David could often be found enjoying a round of golf, a sport that gave him moments of relaxation and fellowship with friends. David’s life was a testament to his deep devotion to God, his family, and the people he served. His unwavering faith, warm smile, and kind words will be dearly missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
A celebration of his life and ministry will be held at First Baptist Church Fairview Heights, IL. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Mt Vernon, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: —Carmi Baptist Children’s Home, Carmi, IL —Lottie Moon Christmas Offering c/o First Baptist Church, Republic, MO —Guidestone Mission Dignity
Of the many favorite Bible verses, David always reminded people to include verse 17 with John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17
“He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7