John Gray

John William “Bill” Gray, 80, of Sedalia passed away Friday, June 24, 2016 at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia. He was born on June 20, 1936 in Houstonia, MO the son of John F. and Jessie Louise (Bratton) Gray, who preceded him in death.

On June 17, 1961 in Miami, OK, he was united in marriage to Jane Ann Johns, who survives of the home.

Bill was born at home in Houstonia, MO. He graduated from Hughesville High School, where he played and lettered in basketball. He later enlisted and served his county honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps. He worked as a car salesman, a railroad carman, and operated S.P. Johns Lumber Company. He enjoyed classic cars, antiques, playing cards, carpentry, and portrayed Santa Claus on several occasions, particularly at the Hughesville Christmas Parade.

Besides his wife, Jane, he is also survived by a son, Michael W. Gray, of Jefferson City; a sister, Dorothy L. Robertson of Sedalia; nieces, nephews and many cousins.

Besides his parents he was also preceded in death by a sister, Ellen Rodgers; two brothers-in-law, Clarence L. Robertson and Virgil D. Rodgers, a nephew Stevon R. England, and a niece Sharon K. “Kay” (England) Cook.

The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 28th at Rea Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 29th at First Christian Church, Sedalia with Dr. Chad McMullin officiating.

Burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Pete Phillips, Mike Robertson, Jack Cook, Gregg Foster, Randy Goodman, and Larry Kreisel.

Honorary bearers will be Dr. Donald Hicks, Vernon Harvey, Bob Harvey, James Mullins, and Dr. Stuart Braverman.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sedalia Animal Shelter or to a charity of the donor's choice in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.