July 2, 1949 – September 22, 2025
Raymond Foshee Gray, Jr. was born on July 2, 1949, in Okmulgee to Raymond Foshee Grey, Sr. and Barbara Ann Grey. His parents, both dedicated educators in the Okmulgee school system, built a legacy of service and learning that shaped the foundation of Raymond Jr.’s early years. As the eldest of their two children, Raymond grew up alongside his sister, Carole Ray, in a household centered on faith and service.
A cheerful and accomplished student, Raymond graduated from Okmulgee Dunbar High School in 1967, excelling in academics and athletics. He later attended the University of Oklahoma, where in 1969 he married Linda Moses. From this union a daughter, Gina, was born. Raymond continued his education and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1971.
Raymond remained an avid learner throughout his life, always reading or engaging in deep conversations that often turned into debates on history, politics, sports, or world events. A devoted Sooner and Oklahoma City Thunder fan, he also enjoyed tennis, chess and exploring natural remedies through clean eating practices. Raymond’s professional path reflected his interest in people and service to others. At Shadow Mountain Institute in Tulsa, he worked as a patient care coordinator, developing treatment plans for individuals navigating mental health challenges. He also taught courses in Life Skills, Stranger Danger and Job Readiness, encouraging and guiding young people to prepare for meaningful futures. His work with the underserved and underrepresented was marked by compassion, dedication and a deep belief in their potential.
Known for his gift of conversation, Raymond never met a stranger. He was quick to spark conversations in everyday places. Whether in line at Walmart or at the casino, interactions with Raymond often became lasting connections. A masterful storyteller, he had the ability to draw people in with an unmatched blend of humor, candor and detail, leaving those around him entertained, inspired and captivated by one of his many stories.
Raymond’s adventurous and inquisitive spirit led him to many places in his life; however, his life’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his sister, Carole Ray (Herman); his daughters Gina and Lindsey (Kweku); and his son Brandon. His love of family was most proudly shown through his grandchildren Miles, Sydney, Jeremy, Braylon, Madison, Rhylan, Parker and his great-grandson, Kaishawn, along with his niece, Shelley (Chad) Collins and nephew, Kyle (Magaly) Ray; and his five great-nieces.
He is also remembered by his special friend, Cathryn Umsted, and an expansive circle of cousins and friends who often referred to him as Brother Ray, Uncle Raymond, Ray Gray, Raymond, Jr., Ray, or simply Mr. Gray. To all who knew him, Raymond will be remembered as a man entrenched in his faith and relationship with the Lord, a loving grandfather and a one-of-a-kind storyteller whose words and adventures will live on through the many lives he touched.
A memorial ceremony remembering the life of Mr. Gray will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel of Peace of Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. of Okmulgee. Rev. McKinley Rice, pastor of St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, will preside. Mr. Gray’s ashes will be buried at Okmulgee Cemetery following the ceremony.
