Calloway Gray, Jr

Calloway Gray, Jr., age 85, of Corbin, passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Baptist Health Corbin. 

Calloway was a beacon of unwavering love and support, always extending a helping hand to those around him. A veteran of the United States army, he carried the discipline and resilience he learned in service throughout his life, inspiring those fortunate enough to cross his path. He was a loving husband, a caring friend, and a cherished member of the Poplar Grove Baptist Church.

Calloway was not just a man of profound character; he was a man of action. He spent 35 fruitful years driving a school bus for Knox County Public Schools, ensuring the safe passage of countless children. He was also a passionate farmer, tilling the earth with the same care and dedication he applied to every aspect of his life. His humble service to his community was recognized in numerous ways, yet he sought no accolades. Instead, he found his reward in the joyous laughter of children, the grateful smiles of the elderly, and the quiet satisfaction of a day well spent. It was this humility and generosity that made him stand out. 

Calloway's love for life was infectious. He had an undying passion for UK basketball and a soft spot for Red Toyota Trucks and classic cars. He was a man who loved the simple pleasures of life, the joy of music, the peace of nature, and most importantly, the company of his beloved wife, Elizabeth. Married on August 2, 1975, she was the apple of his eye; they shared a bond one can only dream of a testament to the kind of nurturing and supportive love that is the cornerstone of every great love story. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calloway Gray, Sr, and Nancy Mills Gray; sisters, Maxine Gray DeLong and Aline Gray Hoffman; nephew, Robert Knuckles; and uncle, Willard Pennington. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years and best friend of 59 years, Elizabeth Jones Gray; 2 adopted grandchildren, Sydney Frederick Goins and Jaxton Hammons; special neighbor, Daniel and Kayla Jones, and their children, Amelia, Elijah, and Levi Grey; special friends, Betty Mills and Cynthia Kerlee; brothers-in-law, Larry Jones (Sharon) and Charles DeLong; nephews, Paul DeLong, and Bill Knuckles (Beth, Tyler, Mathew, and Josh); and special families, the Frederick’s, Hammons’, and Justice’s. 

Visitation will be held from 11-1 pm on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home, where his funeral service will follow at 1pm with Rev. John Laws officiating. 

Burial will follow in Cumberland Memorial Gardens in Lily, KY, with military honors by American Legion Post #88 - Honor Guard. Serving as pallbearers, Paul DeLong, Patrick Frederick, Kevin Goins, Jaxton Hammons, Ricky Hammons, Daniel Jones, and Bill Knuckles. Honorary pallbearers, Dr. Chaudry and staff, Bluegrass Care Navigators, Home Helpers, and Mary June Frye. 

A special tribute from Sydney Frederick: 

What defines the role of a grandfather. A person who loves a child. Who is a caregiver, a role model, teacher, and playmate. And that was who my Bro was to me. It was never defined by blood or family relations. It was defined by his role in my life as my grandfather. My blood grandfather passed before I knew him. And as many told me he would and does in heaven love me so much. However, the Lord knew I still needed one here on earth. And that person was my Bro. Since my birth, he has been there and a part of everything in my life. He and my Nanny asked to be my grandparents before I was born and have taken that role ever since. The amount of love he showed me is unspeakable. The amount of memories we shared are countless. I know he is finally at peace now and in good health with our Lord and savior. I can’t wait until the day I see him again. I know when I enter the gates of heaven. He will stand there and say “there’s the baby,” when I see him. I love you so very much Bro and you will always be my grandpa. ❤️ 

Floral Gifts Sent for Calloway Gray