James E. Gray Jr.

James Edward Gray Jr., 71, died peacefully Tuesday morning, August 27, 2024 at his home under the care of his family and Avita Hospice.

He was born October 10, 1952 in Lebanon, Virginia to the late “Ed” Sr. and Ruby L. (Holland) Gray. The family made their way to Bucyrus when Jim was an infant and returned to the banks of the Rappahannock River on occasional vacations. Jim grew up on ball fields and the love of the game instilled by his father never left. He played baseball for Bucyrus High School and graduated in 1970. Jim met Vicki Beck of Leesville at a movie, and they were set up on their first date by his friend, Rick, who happened to be Vicki’s brother. They were married July 26, 1975 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Leesville and raised their family in Bucyrus where Jim and Vicki both worked for The Timken Co. They were blessed to retire to their home in Leesville where they enjoyed nature and family. 

Jim will be remembered for his welcoming smile, friendly nature, and lighthearted jokes. He was a staple in the dugouts of Aumiller Park and Lions Field as he played slow pitch softball and coached Little League Baseball and Softball. One of his baseball all-star teams made it to regionals and two softball teams won the state tourney to represent Ohio in the regionals of the national tournament. Jim looked forward to catching up with his wife’s family over Thursday night dinners, enjoyed photography, family vacations to the Outer Banks, spoiling his grandchildren, and dabbling in woodworking in recent years.

Jim was a member of the former St. John’s Lutheran Church where he served on Council and as a Lector and Usher. Since retiring, Jim delivered Meals on Wheels, volunteered for United Way, and stayed in touch with classmates over lunch gatherings.

Jim is survived by his bride of 49 years, Vicki Gray; children, Andrew (Kari) Gray and Mallory (Trevor) Seif; and grandchildren, Hattie, Maverick, and Hazel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Bobby Gray and Karen Morris and his in-laws, Ronald and Beverly Beck.

All services will be held at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. The Gray family will receive friends on Sunday, September 1 from 2-5 pm and Jim’s funeral will begin at 11:00 am on Monday with his friend and classmate, Douglas Dible officiating. Burial will follow in Leesville Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made payable to Bucyrus Athletic Boosters or a charity of the donor’s choice and given at the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on the guestbook.