Michael Gray

Mike Gray (85) of Springfield, MO passed away on January 24, 2023.

He was born to George and Tillie (Fuzzell) Gray on October 24, 1937 in the family home. After the loss of his mother at a young age, Mike took on various jobs, such as caddying at Hickory Hills, setting pins at the local bowling alley, and sacking groceries to help provide for his family.

He met and married the girl down the street, Kaye (Danley) Gray in 1957. Together they were blessed with twelve children, to whom he devoted his life. He guided them with his unwavering relationship with God and demonstrated his faith through the way he lived his daily life. He paid visits to the nursing homes, delivered Meals on Wheels, administered the Eucharist at church, and always had a mile-long prayer list on behalf of others. He was a humble and selfless servant who never sought recognition for the good he did.

Mike spent forty years working nights in a warehouse to provide for his family, and ingrained in them the value of dedication and hard work. Although he worked long, hard hours, he always made a point to attend his children and grandchildrens’ sports, plays, and music activities. He was their biggest supporter on--and off--the field or stage.

He is survived by his wife, Kaye, of 66 years, his twelve children, Mike, Jody (Linda), Dan (Debbie), Tom (Mary), Paul (Teresa), Glenn (Sheila), Angela Winton (Terry), Jim (Bengie), Laura Strausbaugh (Ricky), Joleen Phillips (Jon), Ron (Molly), and Mary, 24 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, one brother, Bob (Judy), and one sister, Barbara Allen.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, George and Tillie, a brother, Pat, a granddaughter, Amy, and daughter-in-law, Karen.

Mike was truly one of God’s warriors who touched many lives. He will be greatly missed by many

Visitation will be held from 5:00pm-6:30pm Thursday evening, January 26, 2023 at Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E. Walnut Street in Springfield where a Rosary will be said at 6:30pm.

Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00pm Friday, January 27, 2023 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 2818 E. Bennett Street in Sprinfield with Father Thomas Keifer officiating. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be sent to Meals on Wheels, or Convoy of Hope.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.