Leo Gray

Leo Gray, age 96, of Paola, Kansas, passed away Sunday, February 26, 2023 at his home.

Leo was born October 26, 1926 in Kansas City, Kansas. He was the son of Clarence Arthur and Iva Furn (Taylor) Gray. He grew up in Paola and attended Paola schools. He graduated from Paola High School in 1944.

Leo and Joe Ann Blackmon were married February 10, 1949 in Iola, Kansas. They made their home in Osawatomie and moved to Paola in 1954. They became the parents of two sons.

He served his country with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was stationed in El Paso, Texas. He was honorably discharged in 1953.

He sold cars for Jack Rhea Ford from the 1950s to the early 1980s. He also was co-owner of Red Apple Orchard from 1962 to 1981. After retirement, he worked for John Nash Ford for several years. He founded Gray Discount Liquor in Osawatomie with his sons which opened in 2013.

Leo's hobbies included going to the horse races, playing Poker, working in the garden, and maintaining a meticulous yard.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister who died in infancy.

He is survived by his wife Joe Ann of the home; sons Steve (Debbie) of Paola and Stan (Janette) of Paola; 5 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren; many other relatives and friends.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at Osawatomie Cemetery. Memorials are to the Miami County Cancer Foundation and can be sent c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 305 N. Pearl St., Paola, KS, 66071.

Family and friends are encouraged to post their memories and condolences on Leo's tribute wall.