Gene Gray

Gene Gray, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of the Lord went home to be with his Savior on November 1, 2025 at the age of 83. His life was a reflection of kindness, humility, and steadfast faith, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born on September 10, 1942, in Center, Texas, Gene grew up on a cattle farm in East Hamilton, Texas where he spent his days hunting, fishing, and working alongside his grandfather he affectionately called Paw Sam. He was a talented athlete who lettered in every sport at Shelbyville High School in 1959 and 1960.  He married the love of his life, Betty Sue Keith, on November 18, 1961, and together they built a home filled with love and devotion. Their marriage of 63 years stood as a shining example of commitment and partnership grounded in faith.  Gene worked for 44 years at Center Fixture Operations, a division of Hallmark Cards, retiring as the Night Shift Plant Manager.

Gene was the proud father of Darren and Brandon Gray, whom he guided with patience, wisdom, and love. He cherished every moment spent with his family on vacation to Pensacola Beach, the Great Smokey Mountains, and many other adventurous locations. He especially delighted in his grandchildren, who knew him as Peepaw and who will forever treasure his gentle spirit and warm smile.  Gene was a friend to all and welcomed people with his gentle, kind nature.

A dedicated member for over 50 years of the First Baptist Church of Center, Gene served faithfully as a deacon for many of those years. His quiet strength and servant’s heart touched countless lives within the congregation. With his patient heart, kind smile, and acts of service, Gene embodied the love of Christ in all he did.

Outside of church, Gene loved raising cattle and spent some of his happiest days working in the pasture or in his barn, finding beauty and purpose in the simple blessings of life.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Gray; his children, Darren Gray and wife Tonya, Brandon Gray and wife Kelli; his grandchildren, Destiny, Logan, Lacie, Grace, Carly and Cayden Gray and Brandon Dodson; and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his mother, Velma Nichols, and his father, LaVon Gray.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, with visitation from 5-7pm on Monday, November 3rd with graveside service at Oaklawn Cemetery at 11am on Tuesday, November 4th with Jason Locke and Porter Brewer officiating. The family invites friends to join them in honoring a life well lived in faith and love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Center or the charity of your choice in Gene’s memory.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23