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Michael Gray Obituary

Officer Michael J. Gray, 32, passed away suddenly while on active military duty in Kuwait, serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, March 5, 2004. He is survived by his wife, Tisha; four daughters, Cameron, Emma, Amanda and Avery; his mother, Jean Gray; his maternal grandmother, Joyce Gray; also other family and friends. Officer Gray will be missed by everyone whose lives he touched. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Huguenot Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Rd. Funeral services will be held Thursday, 11 a.m. at Southside Church of the Nazarene. Interment Dale Memorial Park with full military honors. The family requests flowers be omitted and contributions be made to the Michael J. Gray Memorial Fund, c/o Chesterfield Police Foundation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Mar. 8 to Mar. 9, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Gray

Sponsored by Michaels wife and daughters.

Not sure what to say?





Randy Barnett

March 5, 2024

Cannot believe the 20 year mark is upon us. I just want you to know that the tales of our childhood shenanigans are now the stories legends are made of. Altho life has gone on, every year on this date, that wound is ripped open again for those of us who's lives you touched. Miss you buddy

Renee K

March 7, 2019

I cant believe its been 15 years! That day haunts me, and will forever!!! I think of the girls and Tish wonder how they are doing often. I talk to others in the unit that were there that terrible morning, we all feel with just a blink we are there. Your memory lives with us! YOU will never be forgotten. God bless your girls and Tish forever. Until we all meet again.....

Randy Barnett

March 5, 2019

15 years have passed since that horrible day we lost you. My friend, my idol, my brother from another mother. We all still miss and love you, Mike

R K

March 2, 2018

It's that time again where this date comes back around. It's been 14 years but just yesterday we all lost you. You, your family, Trish the girls I just pray they are ok. God bless you. You are thought of by many many people.

Renee Kerr

May 30, 2016

It's Memorial Day today. You, your family, friends, are heavy on my mind. You and they are not forgotten. Rest in peace my friend, rest in peace....

SP

December 17, 2014

Mike, you showed up in a dream last night...Your facial expressions and mannerisms were unmistakable...Same as always. You left me with that signature smirk/smile. Miss you buddy.

LSC Chris Franklin

March 5, 2014

Mike, it is hard to believe that it has been 10 years since that day in Kuwait when we lost you. Although that terrible day seems like a long time ago, many of us remember it as if it were yesterday. Over these past years, there have been many posts from your friends and family and it is always a reminder of the tremendous sacrifice that you and your family have made to ensure our way of life. So many things have happened since that day, but seeing posts from your family really brings it home just how different their lives have been without you. Although the mission has changed and it is 10 years later, you are remembered my friend! To honor you and your family, we built a training room here in Afghanistan and have dedicated it to you. This training room is 100% U.S. Navy and every inch of it is a reminder of the HONOR, COURAGE and COMMITMENT that you displayed all those many years ago! I know that you would be very proud that we use this room to make better Sailors and instruct them on everything from their Rate to EXW training. We would also like your family to know that the very first flag we flew over our new compound, we flew in honor and remembrance of you! This very special flag now hangs along with pictures of you in our training room as a reminder of the sacrifice that you and your family have made for all of us. It is our hope that when your family reads this post, that they will realize that over these many years and during their times of sadness and loss that they were not, have not and will not ever be alone. We hope that your family can find some comfort in the fact that no matter where they are or what they are going through; there are many of us all over this planet thinking and praying for them while we carry out our mission. Shipmate, we hope that they know they are in our thoughts and prayers every single day and that we promise them that you will ALWAYS be remembered!
Respectfully, LSC Chris Franklin/USN

Robbie High

October 20, 2013

I still think of you every day, and still miss you like it was just yesterday. I miss my friend and needed you at times but i always knew you were right there with me to help me get through some really bad times in my life. i love you mike and cant wait to see my good friend again.

April 21, 2013

Thank you Mike for your service and sacrifice. Even though some years have passed, we remain as grateful now as we were then.

Peggy Childers

March 6, 2013

To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray:
It has truly been my honor to sign Michael's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Michael will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy

Peggy Childers

March 8, 2012

March 5, 2012
To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray:
Always remembering Michael. "Some gave all."

Randy Barnett

May 30, 2011

Thank you for your sacrifice Mike. You are missed, and never forgotten on this Memorial day, 2011

L Neal

March 10, 2011

To the family of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray:
Please know that just as your loved one will forever remain in your hearts and minds, his sacrifice and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.

Peggy Childers

March 6, 2011

To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray:
Please accept my remembrance of Michael on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Peggy Childers

March 5, 2010

To the family and friends of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray:
Remembering Michael on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Kenna Larra

November 12, 2009

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

SK1 C. Franklin

May 25, 2009

Mike, THANK YOU! You were a wonderful friend and shipmate and we all miss you very much! I consider it a great fortune to have known you and had the pleasure of hearing you speak about your family and how much you loved and missed them on a daily basis. Your MEMORY and SPIRIT carry on my friend! God Bless!

Renee Kerr

March 6, 2009

I can't believe its been five years. Its hard to believe!! I think about Tish and the girls all the time. I hope they are doing well. I know you are just over all of them as a personal guardian angel. We miss you. Peace.

Rest In Peace

Michael Iezzi

March 5, 2009

Michael,
Thinking and praying for you on the 5th anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.

Peggy Childers

March 5, 2009

To the family of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray:
Michael gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Cameron Gray

February 7, 2009

Dear Daddy I miss you so much I only wish that you could reply.
Oldest Daughter
Cameron

Safely Home

Michael Iezzi

January 29, 2009

Father we entrust our brother Michael to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Michael in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathies.

SHIRLEY DONEY

January 28, 2009

REST IN PEACE PETTY OFFICER GRAY, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

MacDaniel

January 28, 2009

To the Gray family,

I know there are no words to say, except how sorry I am for your loss. May you hold Michaels' memory in your heart and please remember he shall never be forgotten.

...For you every single soldier
Those who served so honorable
Your life was forever altered
While I’m home safe and free
I stand with grateful admiration
I stand respectful and so proud
I know I’m only a civilian
And I don’t even know if it’s allowed.

But I salute you; allow me the honor
to salute you with permission let me say
Even though I hold no rank know that from my heart
My humble gratitude comes from the deepest part.
I salute you.

Suzanne MacDaniel
A Proud Aunt
Sgt. David M.Fisher
KIA 12/1/04

Henryk Zaleski CWO4,SC,USN (Ret)

January 28, 2009

God rest your soul which He claims. Fair winds and following seas shipmate.

Ronnie Taylor

December 11, 2008

I am sorry to all who knew Mike and especially for Tisha. May God be with you always.

March 23, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Petty Officer 2nd Class Gray!

Shannon Ryan McCann

March 7, 2008

You are not fogotten, Michael.

Renee Kerr

March 6, 2008

I knew it was 4 years ago as soon as I woke up. I told everyone I could how it was a sad day for me because I lost a dear friend today. I told those that asked about how and where it all happened. They were all sorry but not as much as those who knew you. I think about Tish and the girls a great deal. I got back a little while ago from Kuwait and I told all that were part of "our" command where and how. They were shocked. I got one of those bracelets that have your name and info on it to wear everyday. I wanted your memory to live on and know that your passing was not in vain. I tell them how you cared and most are sympathetic; I suppose it’s my way of keeping you alive. We all miss you and have your family in our thoughts. I will be in Virginia in a few weeks and will place another flag on your grave with flowers maybe this time I will be able to see Tish and the girls too.

March 5, 2008

Mike,

It's been 4 years and it still hurts

Debbie , Kenny Coffey

March 5, 2008

Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the GRAY family.Knowing now what they have always known is one of many reasons that our HERO[S] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommissed and in your honor that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel is FOREVER clutched in the tallons,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation..THANK..YOU.....B.V.C.

August 1, 2007

Happy Belated Birthday M J Gray. Never forgotten.....

lucy bickley

August 1, 2007

Mike's birthday was the same as my Mom's, July 31st.

We have not forgotten.

July 31, 2007

If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised LE RON A. WILSON (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

July 9, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Petty Officer 2nd Cl Gray and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Cameron Gray

April 26, 2007

Hi Daddy

March 5, 2007

No tears today. I was with my best friend...thanks for her...thanks for being the reason. You were right..."Ita be aight". Hooty -Hoo! Miss you!

Renee Kerr

March 5, 2007

Today is the third anniversary of your passing. I miss you and have not forgotten about you or your family. I am going back to Kuwait again in a few weeks it will be hard but we have a job to do and it must be completed. Your memory will lives on in those who don't forget.

Garnet Jenkins

March 5, 2007

A Multitude of Thanks, to this Brave Young Hero, who lost his life while in the service of our Country. Thank you for your Courage, and your unselfish Dedication and Service.

Rest Safely, Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael J. Gray, in God's Loving Care and may the Peace of the Lord continue to be with the Gray family.
Those who Made these Sacrifices, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.

Treasure this hero Lord, in Your Garden of Rest,
for while here on earth, he was one of our best.

I am sincerely hoping that you continue to feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you each day, as this Country remembers someone very precious to you, who is a Hero to all of us.
I am so deeply sorry for your loss.

Jody (Mann) Atkins

December 13, 2006

Hey Tish, I was just sitting here looking through some old pictures and came across a couple of Mike and I started thinking about how much I miss him. I know Christmas is probably a very hard time for you and the girls, please know that my family will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Just wanted to let you know - that even after all this time - not a day goes by where someone isn't thinking about Mike, you and the kids. I still miss him VERY much. I hope you and your children can find some peace during this holiday season. Please write if there is EVER anything that I can do for you!

David Ryan

September 23, 2006

Dear Gray family,
I am very sorry for your loss. My family lived behind you on Jalee drive until we moved to New York in 1982. At age five Michael was my idol. I remember following him everywhere. I wanted to be just like him. He made quite an impression on me at such a young age. I find it ironic how I became a Marine and am now a MD State Trooper. I remember the two of us walking around in cowboy boots and cut-off jean shorts. I thought we were the coolest two guys in the world.
My family and I will never forget Michael Gray or the sacrifice he made for our country.
My deepest sympathy,
David Ryan

Shannon McCann (Ryan)

September 19, 2006

Dear Gray Family,

I am so deeply sorry to learn of Michael's death. My name is Shannon and as a child I lived next to Michael on Jalee Drive. He was a best friend to both me and my brother, David, until my family moved to New York when I was eleven. Every memory I have of growing up in Richmond has Michael in it! It is no surprise to me that my old friend grew up to be an American hero! God bless.

Randy B

July 31, 2006

Happy birthday Mike.

The Miller Family

July 29, 2006

To the Family & Friends of Petty Officer Gray,

Our sadness at the loss of this brave soldier knows no bounds. We mourn with you and we are forever in his debt. We are grateful for all he has done for us. May God hold you close and comfort you until you see him again.

Cameron Gray

June 19, 2006

Dear daddy I miss you very much

Brenda Ramos

April 13, 2006

Happy Easter Mike!

Pat Canfall

April 10, 2006

My condolences to the Gray family.

Michael may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above.

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

March 14, 2006

My heartfelt sympathy to the Gray family in the loss of Michael. I did not know Michael, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. Michael it has been 2 years since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.

I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.

Love and Peace

Tom



To live in the hearts

of those you leave behind

is never to die"

~Robert Orr~

Jenny "jen nah'" Sowers

March 4, 2006

Mike- You are the reason... the reason for so many wonderful things. Thank you so much for those reasons. Thank you for my Beth "My Brain" and for bringing me my Mike. Thank you for our seven hour Saturday night talks and for always taking my side because let's face it, we were always right (and unfortunately more then you will ever know.) I hope everyone should be as blessed as I was to have someone like you in their lives. I miss you more then words can say but tears will show. Thank you for being my best friend because it'll be alright.

Brenda [Gray] Ramos

March 1, 2006

Dear Mike,

It's getting to be that time again. As the anniversary approaches you are on everyone's mind more than usual. A friend of yours you were stationed with will be visiting us on March 5. I'm going to bring her by for a visit.



Take care Mike. Sing with the angels.

Beth Spaulding

February 27, 2006

Mikey,

Sunday will be 2 years. I can't believe it. I won't be able to sit and talk to you this year. I'll be sure to talk to Tish and Jenny. Watch out for Jenny this year. Thanks for everything, Mike. I miss my friend.

Brian "rhodie" Rhodenizer

February 9, 2006

Think about you everyday Mikey. Tish and the girls are in our thoughts and prayers everyday.



Semper Fi

Iris Smale

February 8, 2006

First, let me say how very sorry I am for the Gray family's loss. You don't know me, but I cannot imagine losing a husband at such a young age; or losing a father when you are a child. I mourn for you.



Then, how thankful I am that there are men like Petty Officer Michael Gray - who are willing to go to a foreign country so that we will continue to have the freedoms that we so take for granted. Freedoms to sometimes say unpleasant things about those very men and women who risk and give their lives for us. And, thankful for their families for the sacrifices they make.



Then, let me tell you what brought me here - to this very guestbook, and how amazingly our God works.



My own husband died in October 2005 (of lung cancer). He was an older man and a strong patriot who had served in the Navy, Army Reserve and Air Force Reserve. He was also a strong Christian who started a "Put Jesus First" ministry shortly before his death.



After his death I needed something to keep my 'hands busy' and volunteered to make a memorial for a fallen soldier's family. I felt this would not only keep my busy, but would also be a way to honor my own husband as I knew he would have approved of this project. I was allowed to choose the branch of service and the actual soldier. Since I knew none of the names on the list, I prayed God would guide me to choose the right one. I chose from the Navy list, and I chose Petty Officer Michael Gray.



I was not given his family's address and went searching online for a trace of him.



Imagine my surprise when I find that he's from Richmond, VA and served in the Chesterfield, VA police force, and was a Christian.



Not only did my husband and Petty Officer Gray have the Navy in common, but we lived in Prince George County, VA in the 1980s and attended church in Chester, VA - and my husband had been a police officer in his younger days.



Now, as a Christian, I do not believe in coincidence - so I believe this was the name I was supposed to have.



I still need to find the family's mailing address so I can send the memorial - so, if you read this, or someone can assist me, please contact me.



God bless you all!!!

Beth Spaulding

January 13, 2006

Mikey,

I miss you often but today seems a little worse. Had a Godschlaeger for you today. I know you would be so proud of the way I have moved on in life. I could never have done it without your belief in me. Thank you for always being a true, unconditional friend. Thank you for bringing Tisha and I together. (We both agreed it was you.) I miss you. No worries though! It'a be aight! Tisha, I'm sorry I didn't get by to see you and the girls when I was home. Next time. You've always got a place in Florida! Miss you!

Renee Kerr

December 24, 2005

I am thinking about you and your family during this holiday season. I hope they are well and know they are in my prayers. You are always with me in spirit.

Vicki Cangelosi

December 24, 2005

Thinking about you this holiday season and always...

Tisha Gray

December 23, 2005

Daddy,Merry Christmas Im writing to you more. I wish you did not die. I really miss you. Love, Cameron, Dear Daddy, I really miss you. I wish will have a merry christmas. Love, Emma. Dear Daddy, we love and miss you, love the babies. I love her, honey!!

shawnee

November 25, 2005

Rest in Peace.

Jonathan York

November 13, 2005

I was sent this link by my sister. I served with Mike as a Police Officer in Chesterfield. We were on the same shift together. Mike was a good man and excellent officer. I just recently returned from Iraq myself. Mike; like so many others, gave the ultimate sacrifice for his fellow service and countymen. I am truly honored to have served and known him. I will never forget him or his willingness to serve in occupations very few are willing to. God Bless him and his family.

Jenn Hoakiko

November 11, 2005

I don't know you or you family but I have a brother who was a Chesterfield officer and did a tour in Iraq. It caught me off guard to see the uniform on this sight and was a reminder to be thankful for my family. My heart goes out to you and I am sorry for your loss.

Jacqueline Epps

November 11, 2005

I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MAY GOD'S GRACE GIVE YOU STRENGTH DURING YOUR BEREVEMENT AND MAY YOUR

LOVING MEMORIES OF MICHAEL WARM YOUR HEART AND MAKE YOU SMILE OFTEN.

Jamie Graves

October 24, 2005

God Bless( Jamie,Navy wife)

Renee Kerr

July 31, 2005

I miss Mike too. I was with him in Kuwait for LEF2 and on that dreadful day. I think of Tish and his girls all the time, how they are coping. I had a hard time for many months after we returned. I would like to visit Mike's family the next time I come to Virginia so everyone in his fmaily knows he hasn't been forgotten.

Tisha Gray

July 28, 2005

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!! WE LOVE AND MISS YOU. WE WILL EAT CAKE FOR YOU. LOVE , CAMERON, EMMA, AMANDA AND AVERY.



PS WE GOT KITTENS

Brenda Ramos

March 3, 2005

Mike, I can't believe you have been gone a whole year. I know you are at peace now but I sure do miss you and wish you were here instead.

Jody (Mann) Atkins

November 30, 2004

Dear Tisha,

I'm not sure if you remember me...Mike and I worked together at VCU Police and the two of you rented a home from my father when you were first starting out. I have been trying to get in touch with you to offer any support that you may need. Mike was a dear friend of mine and I was out of town on training when he passed. If there is ever anything you or your beautiful girls need - PLEASE ask. I still remember the days when I would run into Mike and he would pull out pictures of your oldest two daughters in their Redskins cheerleader uniforms and say "look at the two most beautiful girls in the world." I sure do miss my friend! I know there is a special place in heaven reserved for someone as caring and compassionate as My Friend Mike. We still have the beautiful pillow that you made for us as a wedding gift on our bed and not a day goes by that I don't look at it and think about my friend! I also have two small daughters and Jamie and I would love to help you out if ever you 'just needed a break.' We are all blessed to have had Mike touch our lives and may you find comfort in knowing that he is up there smiling down on you and ya'lls children...you were the most important things in his life! I MISS MY BUDDY!!!!

Angel M

October 1, 2004

I had only met Mike a handful of times, but those times will stay with me forever. Mike was a loving husband and devoted father. He was also showed great honor as an officer of the law and he was a talented musician.

Mike, you are deeply missed. I wish Rodney and I would have gotten to know you better, we had only just met. You were kind to us when we first came here and accepted us into your group and treated us like life long members. I cannot say enough good things about you.

Tish, please know that we all still think of Mike every day. He never leaves us and he makes us proud. He touched so many lives and he will never fade from our hearts. He was truly an inspiration to many of us.

May God bless you and your girls and know that all of are here for you; whatever you need. Take care.

Brenda Ramos

September 13, 2004

Just wanted to say Mike - I think about you every day. We all do. I found a really good picture of you the other day. Even your eyes smiled. Well, bye for now.

LUCY BICKLEY

May 28, 2004

On Memorial Day, in honor of Michael, God bless you, we have not forgotten. God bless your family.

Brenda Ramos (Gray)

April 3, 2004

To my sister Jean, Mike's mom, I am unable to say anything because I am sorry is just not enough. To my mom, Mike's gramdmother, Mike was more a son than a grandson. So, again, saying I'm sorry is not enough. Mike was like a little brother to me.If he were here now I would tell him "how sorry I am I didn't spend more time with him and his family." I just always thought there would be plenty time when both of us were less tied up with our own family responsibilities. To Tisha and the girls, all I can say is I'd like to not make the same assumption and mistake. Please let me know if I can help in any way. I can't tell you any of the many stories I have to tell because it is just too soon for me right now.

Aaron and Tina Hargis

March 23, 2004

Dear Tisha, Cameron, Emma, Amanda, and Avery,

We want to express our deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband and father, Michael. Please know that your family will always be in our thoughts and prayers. Though time may ease the pain and sadness of Michael's death, there is a void that can never be filled, because Michael was such a wonderful person and he touched everyone who had the opportunity to know him. Michael gave the ultimate sacrifice, and we will always remember him as a hero.

Michael's training in Yorktown, VA

March 23, 2004

Michael with his ride

March 23, 2004

Michael after we talked him into touching the camel

March 23, 2004

STG2 Renee Kerr (AOC - DAHT 7 in Kuwait)

March 21, 2004

I only knew Mike for a short time but he touched each of us that he worked with. He was so funny and never let you pass without saying hello or how are you doing. He was a wonderful proud man. He always spoke of his family and showed pictures of them often. He is and will be missed by all that knew him.

Kevin Moore

March 21, 2004

Tisha,

Words could never describe to you the feelings we have experienced at the loss of Michael. We have tried to imagine what it must be like for you, and your family as well, and cannot.

Not a day goes by that we have not mentioned his name, the fond memories of his fun loving nature, his upbeat outlook on everything, along with a " Roger that Chief ".

We mourn his loss daily as you do, and the flight home will not be the same. We save a place in our hearts and memories for him, you, and your children.

May God bless you, look after you, and soon ease your pain and suffering.



GMC Kevin Moore

Camp Patriot

Kuwait Naval Base

Megan O'Dell

March 20, 2004

Tisha, I will keep your family in my Prayers. My heart just breaks for your loss. Please know we are always available if you need to talk.

becky curran

March 19, 2004

Tisha and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you, so sorry to hear about your loss, my husband attended the chesterfield academy with michael and i scheduled your ob/gyn checkups for your youngest, michael is our hero and we will never forget him, we have an angel above. our condolences, sean and becky curran

Silvia Armijo (mattkaitlynsmommy from Law Enforcement board)

March 17, 2004

Tisha,



I'm so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.

Denise Enoch (Petty)

March 13, 2004

Tisha-

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We have lost a hero, but have gained an angel. If you need anything, please let me know. Much love to you.

Derrick and Sunshine Letsinger

March 13, 2004

Tisha,



We have never met in person, but my wife knows you through the LEO and June Mommy boards. We are both deeply saddened by the loss of Mike. This country has lost a true hero and you and the children have lost a best friend, companion and mentor. As a police officer, I have lost a fellow "brother in blue", as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless.

LUCY BICKLEY

March 12, 2004

Tish



I never met you, but I am Randy and Rodney Barnett's Mom. I remember Mike, tall and lanky with red hair, always smiling, full of fun. He spent a lot of time at our house visiting the boys and other friends in our neighborhood. Mike was a good kid and I never worried about my kids when he was around. He looked out for them. I am so sorry for your loss, but just remember you are not alone. We will all miss Mike. My daughter said she feels as though she has lost a brother, and I feel as though I've lost a son.

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your girls and Mike's Mom. Lucy Bickley

Melissa Lawson-Hines

March 12, 2004

Tisha,

My heart goes out to you and the girls. I try to talk to Stacey everyday to find out how you and the girls are. Always remember the love you shared with Mike each time you look at your "little angels" that you created together and find comfort in the greatest gifts that Mike could have given you. Tisha, you were one of the lucky one's to be blessed with such a wonderful husband and father.God bless you and the girls.

Cheryl Anctil

March 11, 2004

Tisha,



Thoughts and prayers are with you and your children during this time. God must have needed another angel in heaven. Your husband will now watch over you and his daughters from up above. May you find some comfort during this time of great sorrow.

Sympathies, Cheryl Anctil (Aunt Pat's daughter)

Randy Barnett

March 11, 2004

Tish:

I know that I signed this book a couple of days ago. I am so sorry for the loss of Mike. There is a story that I have to tell. But before I get started, I am the elder of the Randy and Rodney duo(I'm sure you've heard the stories)One day about oh lets say about 21 years ago, my brother and I were outside in the yard playing with a new pair of walkie talkies when this goofy-looking red headed kid comes riding down the street on his bike and stopped to see what we were doing. From that moment on, Mike came to our house almost every day to hang out with us. And as we grew older, Mike was a great influence on our lives. And to this day I have never met a person who could measure up to the type of person Mike was. He will always be missed. He was one of the good ones, but you already know that. I'm sure that you've heard this time and time again, but if there's anything I can do, just let me know

Russ and Joanne Snook

March 11, 2004

Our prayers our with you and the girls at this very sad and tough time. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Mike was a wonderful man and he will be truly and dearly missed by all.



Our love and prayers always,

Officer Gary Bailey

March 11, 2004

To the Gray family, my deepest feelings go out to you. Mike will be missed by all. God Bless you.

Carol & Lindsay Davis

March 10, 2004

Dear Tish and girls,

Words can not begin to describe the loss that you and your girls are going through. Our prayers and deepest sympathy are with you all. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as you travel through the next few days and the weeks ahead. Mike was a wonderful example of a husband and a father. It was obvious to each of us at Belmont how much he loved you and each of his little girls. He will be missed by all who knew him. God be with you all and keep you safe in his care. Please know that your Belmont "family" will be here if you need us.

Becky Tucker

March 10, 2004

I knew Mike for many years in his old neighborhood. He was the watcher of all the younger children. He had a huge heart and he shared it with many people. I will surely miss him. I pray for his Mother, his wife and his children.

Lottie Pritchard

March 10, 2004

To Jean and the entire Gray family:

I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Michael as a little boy. My deepest sympathy goes out to you at this time.

Debbie Stapleton

March 10, 2004

Jeanie,

Sorry for your loss. I can remember when Michael and Don Jr. played together as little boys. We lost Staff Sgt. Donald C. May Jr. last year this time. I can remember you and Brenda laughing all the time. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. If you need anything please let me know. I am Brenda Mays younger sister. I baby sat for you a couple of times when Michael was little and you and Brenda went shopping. I was a Reese then. May God be with you at this time.

Daniel & Janet Johnson

March 10, 2004

DearTisha & Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, through this very difficult time. We have no words that will ease this pain for you but are in constant prayer on your behalf, knowing that Michael is safe with our Father and you will re-unite one day. If there is anything we can do - please don't hesistate to call us.

Police Officer

March 9, 2004

Mike..You stood in the parking lot of the Carytown Ukrops and looked me straight in the face and said "you can do this job..now get to doing it.." I wanted to quit but you wouldn't let me. It's been 6 years. You really did make a difference. Thank you my friend..Thank you my dear sweet friend...

Roberto Lopez (Ret. CPD)

March 9, 2004

To the Gray Family:

My deepest sympathy goes out to the family for their lost. May God be with you as Mike is certainly with him. He will be missed.

Melissa Johnson

March 9, 2004

I am so sorry that you are having to endure such a huge loss. I met Michael only once, but I can see that he was a caring and proud person to give so much to his community. May God be with you and your family during this time.

Nicole and Marcus French

March 9, 2004

Tisha and the girls,

Our prayers are with all of you as you cope with your loss of a wonderful father, husband, and friend. And to his mother and extended family we are holding you all dear in our hearts during this time.

Michael was wonderful to all of us in so many different ways and we are all lucky to have had him touch our lives. His memory will remain alive in our hearts. Our thoughts are with you all. God Bless.

Owen and Mary Satterfield

March 9, 2004

Tisha:



Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls. We knew Mike when he was a young little "red head" and played with our son, Chris and our nieces, Sarah and Jessica. He will surely be missed by everyone.



May God be with you and your girls.

Kathy Hamlett

March 9, 2004

Mike, you will forever live in my heart, we met working together at VCU Communications. We worked together at Richmond PD. What a wonderful person and true friend. May God watch over this special family not only now in times of heartfelt sadness, but throughout their lives. You, my dear friend, will be missed.

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