Paul Gray

Paul David Gray, 75, Lawrence, KS, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus from lung complications on Thursday, September 22, 2022, surrounded by family. Paul was born on March 16, 1947 in Clinton, MO, the son of Wyley Lloyd and Anna Ruth (George) Gray. He married Margaret Ellen ‘Kitsy’ Waggoner on May 31, 1969 in Kirkwood, MO. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his two daughters, Tacy Fleury (Leigh); Jody White; son, Jay Gray (Alexandra); and 6 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Emery Frederick, and son-in-law Brandon White. Paul received a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Kansas and is remembered for bringing joy to many while performing jazz with groups such as Paul Gray and the Gaslight Gang and the Junkyard Jazz Band of Lawrence. He served in the Army Reserves for 25 years, retiring with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 as the commander of the 312th Army Band. Paul led New Life in Christ church as senior pastor for 30 years, holding a degree in Grace Theology from Global Grace Seminary. The family will greet friends from 6 – 8 p.m. on Friday, October 14, 2022, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. A celebration of life service with military honors for Paul will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in Lawrence, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made in Paul's name to New Life in Christ and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044. For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.