Obituary of John C. Gray

John C. Gray Jr., age 86, of Idabel passed away Thursday, October 27, 2011 at Idabel. He was born on August 6, 1925 in Idabel, the son of John and Claudia Weaver Gray. John was very proud to have served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He served under General Patton in the 5th Division and was wounded in action on the German border and was awarded a purple heart and bronze star. After recuperating from his wounds he was assigned to the military police in Kansas City, MO, where he met and married Evelyn Carter. They spent 62 wonderful years together, she preceded him in death in April of 2008. He returned to McCurtain County and worked in several trade and service positions before starting a successful paint contracting business. John continued to operate his business for over 25 years. John retired to enjoy his hobbies, hunting and fishing. He occupied his time becoming an amateur auctioneer and buyer and seller of horses and tack. He was affiliated with the Waterin’ Hole Cowboy Church and was a lifetime resident of McCurtain County. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Evelyn Gray; a grandson, Jay Paul Tapley; 6 brothers and 1 sister. John is survived by his daughters and son-in-law, Terrie and Roy Burris of Broken Bow, and Claudette Gray of Idabel; a son and daughter-in-law, John C. Gray III and Dian of Burleson, Texas; grandchildren and spouses, John and Tammy Holmes of Shreveport, Ginger and Jonathan Wilson of Plano, Ron and Tara Burris of Broken Bow, Brad and Tracy Burris and Justin Tapley all of Idabel; sisters and brother-in-law, Virgie Mullins and Helen and Buck Buckley of Idabel; 8 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 30, 2011 at the White Family Chapel in Idabel with Bro. Shawn Robertson officiating. Interment will follow in the Denison Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 29, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.