Rollie A Gray

Rollie Alexander Gray, 87, went home to be with his Lord on February 18, 2017, in Niceville, FL.Rollie was born the youngest child of six on June 29, 1929 to Alethea Shephard Gray and Bryant Peeler Gray in Knights Station FL. Rollie grew up in small communities around Lithia FL and graduated from Pine Crest High School. On July 19, 1948, Rollie entered the Air Force and spent 6 years, 6 months and 13 days as a Dispatcher stationed at Lackland AFB, Ft Francis E. Warren, and Kessler AFB, MS. After his time in the Air Force, he returned home where he married Gloria Young on September13, 1965 in Mulberry, FL. They lived in Lithia for many years where Rollie worked in the fertilizer industry before moving to Wellborn, FL. Rollie and Gloria shared a love that spanned generations, celebrating more than 51 years of marriage. Rollie had many talents - avid gardener, rich tenor/baritone and an all-around outdoorsman. Rollie's thumbs were green and his hands were always in the soil, growing a large garden from which he fed his family and others. He sang Lead with the Orange State Quartet and was very active in Wellborn Baptist Church and others fulfilling many positions from Sunday School teacher, treasurer, song leader and even led the services when called upon. Rollie loved God's creation and spent time outdoors fishing, hunting and walking in the woods. Papa was an incredible father, role model and best friend. He gave a strong foundation and leaves big shoes to fill.Preceding Rollie in death was his father Bryant Gray, mother Alethea Gray, Brothers Charlie Gray, Doris Gray, Robert Gray, and Sister Francis Rowell. Rollie is survived by his loving wife, Gloria (Niceville, FL), brother Jimmy Gray (Florene) of Plant City, FL, son Terry Gray (Cathy) of Niceville, FL and daughter Shari (Mike) Bruce of Fort White, FL, Grandchildren Chance Davis (Dalhart, TX), Jenni Hunt (Mary Esther, FL), Cody Gray (Wellborn, FL) and Caycee Gray (Ft Walton Beach, FL), and Great-Grandchildren Steven Davis, Aeryn Davis, Samuel Hunt, Adalynn Hunt and Juliette Hunt.Rollie will be laid to rest in Barrancas National Cemetery. Memorials or donations may be made to American Heart Association, American Cancer Society or Hospice.

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