Photo courtesy of Paul Funeral Home of Washington
Washington, North Carolina
Jun 19, 1956 – Feb 1, 2024
In Memoriam: A Life of Love, Faith, and Harmony
William "Mark" Gray, a beacon of kindness and grace, peacefully closed his eyes for the last time on February 1, 2024, after bravely confronting the challenges of cancer. Surrounded by the warmth of his loving family, Mark transitioned, leaving behind a legacy of compassion that will forever be etched in our hearts.
Mark, aged 67, was a gentle soul, a devoted Christian whose kindness touched the lives of all fortunate enough to know him. Even in the midst of our grief, we find solace in the belief that angels have enveloped him in love, and we trust in God's divine plan for this extraordinary soul.
A Celebration of Life service in honor of Mark's legacy will be held at Paul Funeral Home, 900 John Small Ave., Washington, NC, on Saturday February 10th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Stephen Englund, Mark's stepson from Blacksburg, Virginia, will preside over the service. Following the Celebration of Life, a visitation will provide an opportunity for friends and family to share cherished memories.
Born in Washington, NC, on June 19, 1956, Mark was a 1974 graduate of Aurora High School. He dedicated over 40 years of his professional life to The East Group in Greenville, NC, where his brilliance as a self-taught Mechanical Engineer left an indelible mark. Mark's influence extends beyond Eastern North Carolina, his wisdom and mentorship remembered by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Mark found joy in the harmonies of life. A talented musician, he played the guitar, harmonica, and composed songs that resonated with inspiration and love for God. His musical legacy, a beautiful harmony of faith and artistry, will continue to echo in our hearts.
Mark is survived by his devoted wife, Diane Gray, his son Eric, daughter Alyssa Gray-Siegel (Jesse), brother Larry Gray, sister Judi Wooten, stepsons Brian Englund and Stephen Englund (Amy), his three grandchildren, and a myriad of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.
Mark is preceded in death by his parents, William Burton Gray and Mae Hollowell Gray, of Aurora, North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to a charity close to your heart, as a testament to Mark's legacy of generosity and love.
May the melody of Mark's life continue to inspire us all. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com
Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Gray family.
Read MoreMark was my mentor, supervisor & friend. I met him at my first job out of ECU. Although I was a young buck he was always willing to show me the way. He was always kind and witty. I will miss my friend Mark. My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
James Turbyfill
July 04, 2024 | Garner, NC | Friend
Diane and Family,
We were heartbroken when we heard of Mark’s passing. Yes, he was a kind soul! Probably everyone that knew him can recall kind words spoken to them. He told me that I was his Mom and Dad’s angel. Diane, everyone could witness the love that you two shared. We will look forward to seeing Mark again in Heaven where we will never grow old and we will spend forever with Jesus and all the ones gone before. Love and Prayers ❤
Buddy and Claudette Darr
February 11, 2024 | Greenville, NC | Friend
I have only known you and your husband for a very short time But it has been truly an honor. In the time that I have spent interacting with the both of you when you were together, it was evident that there was a great love between you. Cherish the memories and know that you can see each other again. God bless! Ann Woolard
Ann Woolard
February 10, 2024 | Washington, NC | Friend
We were both a part of the AHS Class of '74 & have been good friends all these many years! Mark was always humble about his many talents & that made him that much more impressive. He was kind & thoughtful & he will be deeply missed. I know he was a follower of Jesus & it's a comfort to me to know he is now in His presence.
Prayers sent for comfort for sweet Diane & all the family.
Libby Lewis Rowe
February 10, 2024 | Richlands, NC | Friend
From the Hardy and Scott family: Our Condolences and prayers go out to the families, the neighbors that lived across the dirty road from Mr Bill and Mrs Kathleen Gray in Blounts Creek. Which in return known Mark parents Burton and Mae Gray. I did see Mark a few times in our early parts of life. Rest in peace Mark and see you will always be remember.
Gerald Scott
February 09, 2024 | Virginia Beach, VA | Neighbor
The Khoury family sends our heartfelt condolences to both Diane and Mark's family. In addition to having a brilliant technical mind, Mark's zest for life, music and teaching others was evident in all that he did. He was a pleasure to both work with and know for the many years that I was at The East Group. Please know that in this world, energy is transformed and NEVER lost... which means that Mark's presence and positive energy will always be with everyone that he touched.
Tony Khoury
February 09, 2024 | Greenville, NC | Coworker
Hidden Creek/Voyage Band. Mark was a part of. Nice pick Puff. These guys were heroes to me as a young musician.
Michael Asby Jr
February 06, 2024 | Chocowinity, NC | Friend
I can still see Mark on the old Aurora park bench playing his acoustic. He never gave up on the music and I've always admired him for that. A good person. Never forget you man!
Michael Asby Jr
February 06, 2024 | Chocowinity, NC | Friend
Diane and family, may God's strength and love lift your heads and hearts to remember him as your husband, family member and friend. God welcomes Mark with open arms in a room that He has prepared for him, so please accept our prayers in your loss and in healing.
Sharon & Richard Sigman
February 05, 2024 | Winterville, NC | Friend