Clarence Elliot Gray

Clarence Elliott Gray Sr., 80, passed away November 20 following complications from a fall. Born in Shallotte NC, he resided in Jacksonville for the past 46 years. Following high school and a few years playing baseball in the NY Yankees farm system, he joined the Navy where he served and protected our country during the Korean conflict. Upon his discharge he went to work for Greyhound Bus Lines. As a driver he earned numerous awards for safety, accumulating 33 accident free years. His proudest achievement was earning the “Silver Stripe” award for 25 accident free years. As part of this award, one of the buses in the fleet was named in his honor and bore a placard with his name and award. Outside of work his life centered on his family and his church. He was a member of the Mandarin United Methodist church for over 40 years. During this time he led a stewardship campaign to finance the existing sanctuary, he helped establish the annual Men’s club Christmas tree sale, and he was instrumental in establishing Boy Scout Troop 268. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ruth; five sons: Kevin Gray (Laura), Richard Gray (Jessica), C. Elliot Gray Jr., Gregory MacNaughton (Connie) and Scott MacNaughton(Cindy). He is also survived by six grandchildren: Matthew MacNaughton (Julie), Richard Gray Jr, Tyler Gray, Tonya (Joseph) Stahl, Kyle MacNaughton and Katie MacNaughton and one great-grandson, Colton MacNaughton. Visitation with family and friends will be held Sunday, November 24th from 3-5 p.m. at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin. Funeral services will be 10 am Monday, November 25th at Mandarin United Methodist Church, 11270 San Jose Blvd. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Mandarin United Methodist Church Samaritan’s Fund, Safe Harbor Boys Home, or the Wounded Warrior Project.