Charles Eugene Gray

Charles Eugene “Charlie” Gray, 91-year-old longtime Langley resident, passed away June 30, 2024, at home, surrounded by his family. He was born June 29, 1933, in Bonner Springs, Kansas to Willard Clifton Gray and Nancy Edith Gray (Bogle). Charlie attended Otterbein School and Ketchum High School where he graduated at 16. When old enough, he entered the Army and served during the Korean War. He married Linda Adams on March 17, 1984.

Charlie spent many years as a purchasing agent for heat exchange companies until his retirement in 2008. He was an avid jogger and was known to run the Tulsa Run every year while living in Tulsa. In fact, Charlie ran up into his late sixties. He loved being on the family farm in Langley, enjoyed traveling, and looked forward to his next meal, especially breakfast. One of his most used phrases was, “I’m headed to the Coop!” Most of all, Charlie loved his family and ensured that they knew it.

Charlie was always willing to visit, lend a listening ear, and impart his wisdom to any who would listen. He was easy to talk with but made sure to give you a hard time, especially the wait staff at his favorite eating establishments.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Linda, of the home; daughter, Valerie Nieman of Langley; step-son, Michael McKenney of Tampa, Florida; grandchildren, Ethan Nieman of Vinita, Garrison Nieman of Claremore, and Aurelia McKenney of Tampa, Florida; special nephew, Rusty Gray (Evelyn) of Wenatchee, Washington; and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, John Gray and Richard Gray.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Vinita Community Church with Pastor Andrew Haire, Sr. officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you gather your family and go eat breakfast together in memory of Charlie.

Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemories.com or the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Luginbuel Funeral Home of Vinita. “Family owned. Locally operated.”