Galveston Grays' Obituary
Galveston Grays Jr. was born on November 24, 1923, in Houston, Texas, to Galveston Grays Sr. and Ida Martin. He was raised in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward, where the values of faith, hard work, and family were instilled in him from a young age.
He lost his mother at the tender age of seven, yet even without her nurturing presence, he grew into a deeply loving and compassionate man, a devoted father who also helped his sister raise her six children, pouring warmth, care, and guidance into the lives of his children and everyone around him.
On October 26, 1942, Galveston Grays Jr. married Bonnell Kellough (1922–1990).
Their union brought forth 13 children, each nurtured with care, guidance, and a lot of prayer: Glenn Alvis Grays, Duane Eugene Grays, Robert Lewis Grays, Jerry Bernard Grays, Bernadette Jacqueline Grays, Leslie Owens Grays, Ernest Paul Grays, Michael Anthony Grays, Charles Grays, Beverly Joyce Grays, Timothy Grays, Nolan Grays, and Betty JoAnn Grays, all of whom carry forward their legacy of love, strength, and devotion.
A proud World War II veteran, Mr. Grays served his country with honor. Following his military service, he dedicated over 40 years to the United States Postal Service, retiring after a distinguished and respected career. In 2023, his 100th birthday was celebrated by family, friends, and the community. That same year, the City of Pearland, Texas, proclaimed November 24th as “Galveston Grays Day” in recognition of his service and enduring legacy. Up until the age of 101, he maintained his independence and strong spirit.
Galveston was a man of deep faith who truly loved God, his church family at Double Rock Baptist Church (San Francisco, California) and Blessed Hope Baptist Church (Houston, Texas ), and the fellowship of worship. Beyond family and church, he cherished life’s simple joys. He found peace and happiness while fishing, and he poured love into every family meal he prepared, especially his famous tea cakes, which were always baked with care and shared with delight. His laughter, gentle guidance, and big presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bonnell Kellough Grays, his father Galveston Grays Sr who lived to be 103 years old, his sons Michael Anthony Grays and Duane Eugene Grays, and siblings Jorine Grays, Howard Grays, Joe Grays, and Nolan Grays.
He is survived by his 11 children, daughters and sons-in-law, 33 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren, numerous great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews, including his eldest niece Iva Jewel Sheldon, his eldest nephew Joe Grays Jr, his dear friend Theresa Hall, and his cherished church family, Pastor and First Lady JD Denkins, each of whom will forever treasure his love, guidance, and the lasting imprint he left on their hearts. A man of quiet strength, dignity, and unshakable faith, Galveston Grays Jr. leaves a legacy rooted in love, service, and family unity. He touched countless lives and built a foundation that will be felt for generations.
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