Charles E. Gray, Jr.

Charles Emerald Gray, Jr., age 87, of Paola, Kansas, passed away Friday, June 3, 2022, at his home. Graveside services will be held at 1:30 pm, Friday, June 10, 2022, at Paola Cemetery with military honors. Charles was born Sunday, October 14, 1934, in Cosby, MO, the son of Charles E. and Nina (Barth) Gray. He grew up in St. Joseph, Missouri. Charles served his country with the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Conflict. He was honorably discharged September 3, 1958. Charles was united in marriage to Martha Faye Cunningham on November 12, 1958 in Blytheville, Arkansas. He worked at Loren Cook in Springfield, Missouri as a laborer for 21 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Martha, and brother Winston. Survivors include his son Don (Angelica) Gray of Paola; daughter Lisa (Chris) Wolfe of Overland Park; seven grandchildren Karsten (Abby) Gray, Kyle Gray, Kenzie Gray, Darby Wolfe, Lauren (Caden) Leigh, Maggie Wolfe, and Christopher Wolfe; four great grandchildren Hudson, Westen, and Gannon Gray and Melody Portugal; four sisters Imogene Noble, Wanda Winter, Sharon Barth, and Charlene Villarreal; three brothers Blane, Virgil, and Vernon Gray, many other relatives and friends. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Charles’ Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com.