Ernest Lee Gray, Jr., a devoted husband, father, brother, and faithful servant of God, entered eternal rest on April 21, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, just days before his 73rd birthday.
Born on April 24, 1952, in Norfolk, Ernest was the eldest of eight children and the beloved son of the late Francis Gray and Ernest Gray Sr. He spent his early years in Norfolk before moving to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he graduated from Palmer High School in 1970. While there, he participated in Junior Achievement and competed in football and wrestling. From 1972 to 1978, he served in the Army National Guard during the Vietnam War era – a time that demanded strength and resilience, even for those serving stateside.
Ernest dedicated over 30 years of service to Captain D’s before retiring, where he was known for his hard work, dependability, and welcoming spirit. His quiet strength and work ethic left a lasting impression on all who knew him. As a servant leader, he mentored many young employees, some of whom later entrusted their children to his guidance as well. A man of deep faith, Ernest was an active member of Faith Community Church in Norfolk for over 30 years. He served as an usher, led the Men of Faith ministry, assisted with the sound ministry, and helped steward tithes and offerings. He also took part in a mission trip to Jamaica, a reflection of his heart for service both near and far.
Ernest had a lifelong passion for capturing memories. In earlier years, he recorded countless home videos on VHS and snapped Polaroid photos. In his later years, he embraced digital photography, adding joy to family events, vacations, and everyday moments. He was a loyal Denver Broncos fan who enjoyed bowling, spending time with family, and relaxing with action and western movies. His God-fearing heart, steady presence, and contagious laugh were a source of comfort and joy to all who knew him.
Ernest was a cherished husband to Bobette Gray for 40 years and a proud father to his two sons, Ernest Gray III and Dominic Gray. He also leaves behind his siblings: Sylvester Gray, Deborah Santos, Marcus Gray, Gary Gray, Sr., and Michelle Gray. He now rejoices in Heaven, reunited with his parents and his sisters, Wanda Gray and Cynthia Ann Gray.
To know Ernest was to witness humility, devotion, and service in action. His life was a testament to Matthew 25:23: Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.
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Karimah McNair says
April 26, 2025 at 12:36 pmOur heartfelt condolences to the Gray family Bobette, EJ, and Dominic plus extended family members! May you all have Peace, Comfort, and Strength during this bereavement journey! Ernest had a beautiful spirit, a man of God, with an affectionated laugh! He will be sorrowfully missed! RIP until we meet again! Nathan and Karimah
Edward and Shirley Haywood says
May 2, 2025 at 2:45 pmOur sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to the Gray family. We know that you sorrow now, but remember joy will come when you see Ernest again. This is a promise from the Lord. Our hearts and prayers will go before the Lord for you in the coming days that you will experience peace knowing that our great God has you in His loving arms.
Vicki Brady says
May 3, 2025 at 10:53 amMrs Gray and family, your husband was a true man of god,he would speak to me every time he seen me.and I have had the pleasure of working with you for about six years you to are a true woman of God, my prayers and my love go out to you and your sons.and God will see you through this.much love to you all.