Russell Allen Gray

Russell Allen Gray, age 73, of Sophia, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 23, 2025. He was born September 14, 1952 in Beckley, West Virginia the son of the late Ruth Ellen Calhoun Gray and E.C. Allen Gray.

Surviving are his wife of 22 years, Janet Williamson Gray; sister, Shelma Hammond of Greensboro, NC; children like his own, James "Jim" Akines and wife Chelsea of Sophia, NC and Joshua Akines and wife Kylie of Sophia, NC; grandchildren, Timmy, Mia, Aaron, Cooper, Declan and Paisley; nieces, Victoria Coble and husband Shane and Catherine Goetz and husband Stefan; two great nieces, two great nephews; and many cousins.

Russell graduated from Randleman High School followed by UNCG in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. He worked for Moses Cone briefly then bought the family business, Sophia Sewing which employed many from the community. Most of his career Russell was a photographer, traveling the East coast for Glamour Photos; PCA doing church directories and later school photography which he retired from.

Russell, a member of Sophia Baptist Church served as Deacon and Sunday school teacher for many years along with other committees in the church. He joined the Greensboro Jaycees in 1978 actively working on projects in all areas. Junior Miss he served as chairman and a judge throughout the years and also the Kmart GGO to the Wyndham in gallery control. Russell was awarded the highest recognition possible with the US JCI Senate which gave him lifetime membership internationally. Russ is now with his Lord and Savior where he has no pain or sickness. To all his family and friends that know our Lord and Savior personally, this is not goodbye forever, just see you later. Russ will be missed by all his family, friends and also his four-legged fur buddies which he loved and spoiled rotten.

A celebration of life will be held 3 PM Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Sophia Baptist Church, 4082 Millikan Rd, Sophia, NC 27350. The family will receive friends from 1PM until 3 PM prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to the Non-Profit Piedmont Triad Ambulance and Rescue (PTAR) or the Sophia Baptist Church Playground Fund by clicking the links below.