William W. Gray

Duty, Honor, and Country are three words that best describe Colonel William W. Gray, USAF (Ret.), 91, of Granville. Colonel Gray passed away September 8, 2016 at the Selma Markowitz Care Center, operated by Hospice of Central Ohio. He was born in Ishpeming, Michigan to the late William A. and Mary Bilkey Gray.

A 1947 graduate of West Point, Colonel Gray retired after a thirty year career with the United States Air Force. His last assignment prior to retirement had been as the base commander of the Newark Air Force Station in Heath. He was an aviator and a member of the inaugural group of fighter pilots that helped shape today's air defense, flying with other men who had a passion for pushing these new machines to their limits without restrictions. His passion for aviation was also paramount in his civilian life where he enjoyed flying his Piper aircraft. Additionally, Bill was an outdoor enthusiast who had an appreciation for all aspects of nature and its conservation. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed hunting, photography, and spending time with family. He was active civically through Rotary International where he maintained 40 years of perfect attendance and  served as treasurer for seventeen years. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Granville, serving as an Elder. Bill will be remembered as an amazing person, Renaissance man, and Dad who was loyal and full of integrity.

Surviving are his wife of sixty-one years, Elizabeth L. G. Gray; children, Christina Gray, Andrew Gray, and Bronwyn Roell and her husband Joseph; and special granddaughter, Kaytlin, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother Peter R. Gray, PhD.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church, 110 W. Broadway, Granville with Rev. Karen J. Chakoian as celebrant. Inurnment will be held at West Point with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight of Columbus, P.O. Box 12036  Columbus, OH 43212 or to the Rotary Foundation, Rotary Club of Granville, P.O. Box 296, Granville, OH  43023.

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