William Joseph Gray, IV

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son, William “Will” Joseph Gray, IV, in a tragic automobile accident, on Sunday, February 23, 2025. He was born in Metairie, LA, on July 14, 2005. William was a 2024 graduate of Thrive Academy in Baton Rouge, LA, where he excelled in leadership, academics, sports, and music. He was a bright light in our lives and in the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit was unmatched, and he brought joy, laughter, and love wherever he went. William had a personality that lit up any room he entered. His genuine warmth, infectious smile, and kind heart touched everyone he met. Whether he was making a new friend or giving a speech in front of the entire school, his ability to connect with people was extraordinary. His presence made people feel seen, heard, and loved. William was known for driving others crazy with his witty sense of humor and captured everyone’s hearts with his unwavering loyalty. He loved the musical, “Hamilton” and had a passion for fishing, hunting, gaming, sports (especially football), and “fixing” anything he could get his hands on. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact will last forever. We ask that you remember William not in sorrow, but in the joy and love he gave so freely. May his memory continue to inspire all of us to live with kindness, joy, and authenticity, just as he did. William is survived by his mother and stepfather, Shannon Barker and Michael Stewart; sisters, Mya Gray, Cheryl Stewart, and Mi’kia Stewart; grandparents, Gustavus K. Barker, III, Alice H. Folse and Michael J. Folse; great grandmother, Cheryl Lefort; and a host of other loving family members and friends that will forever cherish his memory. He is preceded in death by his father, William Joseph Gray, III; brother, Zachariah Joseph Gray; grandmother, Lazara “Liz” Gallardo Barker; grandfather, William Joseph Gray, Jr.; aunt, Surena A. Gray; and great grandparents, Estrella Gallardo, Gustavus K. Barker, Jr., and Lorena and Derl Havard. We welcome all who knew and loved William to join us for a memorial gathering at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA, on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 12pm to 4pm. Tributes shared by family and friends will begin at 3pm. The family requests all to wear black or camo attire in honor of William’s love for the outdoors. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.greenoaksfunerals.com