Charles L Gray

Charles Lee Gray Sr., affectionately known as “Charlie Boi” to those who loved him and those whom he loved, was born on March 20, 1942, in Prentiss, Mississippi, to the late Annie Lee Bass and Buster Grave. He was the oldest boy among his siblings.

At the age of 19, Charles moved to Houma, Louisiana, where he would spend the remainder of his life. Though he never returned to live in his hometown of Prentiss, Mississippi, he carried with him the values and strong work ethic that shaped the man so many came to know and love.

Charles became a longtime and beloved resident of Houma, where he built a loving family and developed lasting relationships with friends, coworkers, in-laws, and customers. He was a dedicated and hardworking employee who spent a combined 40 years working at Lawson Texaco Gas Station and Conoco Gas Station. Those who visited these establishments knew Charles for his humble demeanor, kind spirit, and willingness to work tirelessly. He touched the lives of many people throughout the community simply through his everyday interactions and genuine care for others.

Charles also had a special love for BINGO. What began as something he enjoyed became another meaningful part of his life when he became a dependable member of the Mardi Gras Bingo Hall crew. When he was not working at his main jobs, Charles also provided lawn care services to families throughout the Terrebonne Parish area. He took pride in keeping yards well cared for and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

After retiring from his regular employment, Charles continued doing what he loved—cutting grass, attending Bingo, and staying connected to the people and community that meant so much to him. He remained active until his health began to decline.

Charles leaves to cherish his memory his children: LaDonna Gray Leblanc (James), Tomika Gray Patterson (Herbert), Timothy Gray (Sonya), Charles Gray Jr., Theophilus Gray, Shawn Gray, and George Singleton; his first wife, Hosea Mae Gray; his siblings, Nellie Newsome, Ivy Fusilier, Zenora Wilks, Howard Bass (Mary), and Author Louis Polk; nine grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, coworkers, and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his second wife, Lucille Singleton Gray; his parents, Annie Lee Bass, L.C. Bass, and Buster Grave; his maternal grandparents, Julane White and George Barnes; his siblings, Hollis, Vernon, and Milton Bass; his daughter-in-law, Rena Gray; and his grandson, Miquel Gray.

Charles was a man who believed in hard work, family, humility, and community. His presence brought familiarity and warmth to those around him, and his memory will remain in the hearts of all who had the blessing of knowing him. Though he is no longer with us, the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the memories he created will live on through his family, friends, and community.

May Charles Lee Gray Sr. rest peacefully, and may his memory continue to be a blessing to all who loved him.

Visitation will be from 10:00am until Funeral time 12:00pm Friday September 25, 2026, at Jones Funeral Home 230 South Hollywood Road Houma, La 70360. Interment following service at PTR Cemetery Houma, La 70360