William-Gray-Obituary

William Robertson Gray Jr.

Portland, Oregon

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Portland, Oregon

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Gray Jr., William Robertson 88 Dec. 27, 1922 Aug. 18, 2011 William R. Gray, Jr., former professional football player and long-time educator and administrator in Portland Public Schools, passed away peacefully at age 88. Born in Portland to William and Eliza Gray, Bill was one of seven children...

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Hello, Gray family. My family lived across Henry Street from you for years. I have memories of you daughters practicing your Scottish dancing on the front walk. Mr. Gray gave me and a neighbor a ride to Cleveland every morning, until a classmate was old enough to drive. Then, we opted to take the "cooler" ride that didn't involve arriving with the vice principal who was in charge of boys' discipline. Bill was a kind man and my brother and I were honored that he attended our father's funeral...

As my high school principal I recall him as a quiet yet ever observant man. A kind and thoughtful man. A gentle and fair man. A wonderful example for the students of Roosevelt and for all who were privileged to know him. My condolences and blessings to his family. ~Allison (Brainard) Shaw, class of '81

The messages say it all...a very special man and a very special family, too. Love to all of you,
Daphne and John Schetky

Mr. Gray was an important influence in my life and the direction it took. I will always be grateful for having known Mr. Gray. Tom Potter, Class of "58"

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

It was an honor to work for Bill Gray at Roosevelt High School. He had a kind spirit and was always fair and encouraging to both staff and students.He touched our lives and will be remembered fondly by many. My deepest sympathy.

"I was a student at Cleveland and remember Bill Gray as the man that walked the hallways with a friendly smile and positive attitude I am glad he was there for us."
Tony Leonetti
class of "61"

As a Roosevelt teacher, I was lucky that Bill was my principal during a difficult transition in my life. When I sat in his office and told him what I was going to need to do, his response was to stand, come around his desk, and hug me. He had an uncommon degree of emotional intelligence. His support meant the world to me. I am so sorry for his loss.

I have such fond Memories of Mr. Gray of when I was a student at Roosevelt C/O 1984. He was a kind