Mr. George William Gray, 54, of Smokey, passed away Thursday evening, December 18, 2025 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington. He was the son of Rita McVey Gray and the late Rev. Paul Gray born September 25, 1971 in Barbourville.
George was a former teacher’s aide and a member of Mount Ariat Baptist Church. In his free time, he enjoyed watching crime television shows, fishing, and running his RC cars. George was devoted to caring for his dog, Shep and had interest in collecting knives. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family and valued the moments they shared together.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his siblings Paul Gray Jr. and Steven Lee Gray and special friends, David Elliott and Mark Smith.
Survivors include his loving mother, Rita Gray of Smokey; children, Candace Gray of Corbin, Caitlynn Gray of Barbourville, Elizabeth Gray-Gilbert and husband, Lucas, of Barbourville, Dakota Collett of Williamsburg and Laura Gambrel of Kansas City, MO; brother, Rev. Aaron Gray and wife, Argie, of Hinkle; cherished grandchildren, Novalynn Gray, Journey Karr, Amira Karr, Harlow Rain Lewis, River Allen Collett, Noah Austin Collett and Jonah Lake Collett; special friend, Mickey Hammons; among other loved ones and dear friends.
His funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Tuesday, December 23 at 2 P.M. with Rev. Aaron Gray and Rev. Columbus Hensley officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Gray Family Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Gavin Gray, Jaron Gray, Lucas Gilbert, Brayden Merida, Caitlynn Gray and Mickey Hammons.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Monday between 6 and 8 P.M. and Tuesday prior to the funeral hour.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the funeral home to assist with expenses.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
