James Luthian Gray Sr. was born to Christine Gray and Fletcher Shelby on February 25, 1949, in Lucas, Ohio. He was called home to the Lord on October 17, 2023. James was known for his famous one word saying, "Later". He would say this after his conversation with you because he told us to never say good-bye. He cherished life and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. If you asked him about the Lord, he would say "oh yeah, I'm saved". James also shared his life in a beautiful union, with his devoted wife Joan Gray of 36 years.

James worked various jobs, he worked at the Matrin Wheel Co., for 27 years as a welder and retired. He had a smile, laugh and silly sense of humor that would keep you laughing all day. James was a skilled fisherman and taught others how to fish, he enjoyed watching movies especially martial arts, he carried himself in a neat and decent way and was a very hard worker. He was talented with his hands with crafts, fixing things and helpful in caregiving. He was known city wide as they announced his name over the radio, for his old school dancing. He had smooth moves, and glided with his feet as he floated across the dance floor. He was great company, a peaceable man, had a good heart and was easy to get along with. James is proceeded in death by his mother Christine Gray, mother-in-law Annie Joe Stokes along with his brother Andrew Lee Gray Sr.

James leaves to cherish his memories with his loving wife Joan Gray, brother: Sammuel B. Jordan, sisters: Ira Jean, Patricia Jordan, Tresea Jordan, and Mary Jordan. sons: James (Angie) L. Gray Jr., Darnell L. Gray; daughters: Charia (Roy) Grainger, Tashia (James) L. McNeir, Stalecia A. Jones, Statoya A. Jones, oldest grandchildren: James L. Gray lll, Darrian Aldridge, Markees L. Gray, Kayon D. Gray, Sharia Johnson, Heaven Gray, Roman Gray, Darnell Gray Jr., Shaiel Gray, Tatyana Gray, Aiden, Javon Gray, Paris Newsom, Jaila Blair, Joseph Blair, Tie'L Hughes, Jontara Johnson, and Andre Gaiter and Emmitt Tolbert. Along with a host of other grandchildren (added on the back), great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.