Richard F. Gray, Jr. was born on December 10, 1928 in Denver, CO and passed away on Father's Day, Sunday, June 18, 2017 in Crete, NE at the age of 88. Richard spent most of his childhood and young adult life in Houston, TX, but came to Doane College in 1983 where he worked in the Facilities Department for 4 years. After Richard retired, he lived at Doane in a Gaylord Hall apartment for two decades. Richard then enjoyed his twilight years at the Tabitha Living Community.
Richard is predeceased by his adoptive parents, Richard F. Gray, Sr., a Doane College graduate from the class of 1911, and his wife Isabel Gray. Richard was their only child.
Richard is fondly remembered by his friends who knew him from his time at Doane and in the Crete community. Staff in campus offices at Doane looked forward to Richard's daily visits that usually involved discussion of either the weather or sports. Others may recall seeing Richard, as he made his way to the campus center dining hall to enjoy his meals. During his time living in Crete, David and Erma Osterhout made him part of their family. Richard regularly spent holidays and participated in church activities with the Osterhouts. Doane staff also looked after Richard. Those who had the pleasure to know Richard will remember him as a gentle man, who was always polite and kind.
A memorial service will be held at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete on Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Doane University, 1014 Boswell Avenue, Crete, NE 68333.