Brother John W. Gray

Rye, NH – John W. Gray, 77, of Rye, formerly of Portsmouth, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024 at his home surrounded by family, just as he had planned.

Born in Portsmouth on August 30, 1947, John was the son of the late George & Marjorie (Hesford) Gray. He graduated from Portsmouth High School where he was a part of the 1965 state championship basketball team, an accomplishment he was extremely proud of. He went on to UNH where he earned a bachelor’s degree with honors in business management and served in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Before his retirement, John was the third-generation owner and operator of the F.A. Gray Painting Company in Portsmouth.

John was affectionately known to be a true gentleman; respectful, honest, and always putting family first. His roots ran deep in the local community. He was involved in numerous charitable organizations in both New Hampshire and Florida, notably the Portsmouth Rotary Club and the Bobby Nichols Charitable Foundation. John was also a 32nd Degree Mason at the St. John’s Lodge in Portsmouth.

John was a patient, humble and kind person that enjoyed all sports, especially those played by his grandchildren. He was an avid golfer belonging to several country clubs and played for many years abroad with the Big Ed group. He took great pride in coaching his Rye Little League team, the Braves, and was the founder of the Saturday basketball league in Rye. In his earlier years, he loved skiing and passed that passion on to his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Lynn (Sullivan) Gray; his daughter Susan Gray Wolf; his son, John Bradford Gray (Susan Downey Gray); and four grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Catherine Wolf, Matthew Wolf, Killian Gray, and Nolan Gray. He is also survived by his brother, Bradford Gray (Janice Gray) and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Coffin Graper.

John leaves behind a legacy of mentorship, compassion, kindness and love. His unforgettable smile and grin brought life to any room. We take comfort in knowing that he is on the dance floor dancing with family and friends that have gone before him. John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

SERVICES – A time of Memorial Visitation was held on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024 from 4:00 until 6:00 pm at the J. Verne Wood Funeral Home - Buckminster Chapel, 84 Broad St., Portsmouth, NH. Funeral Friday Morning with a Funeral Service at 10:00 am at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 101 Chapel St., Portsmouth. Interment followed at Central Cemetery in Rye. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the John W. Gray Scholarship Fund via the Portsmouth Rotary Club.

Credit card and paypal -or- Venmo | Portsmouth Rotary

Checks mailed to: Rotary Club of Portsmouth PO Box 905 Portsmouth, NH 03802-0905

Please note John W. Gray Scholarship fund in your memo.