Bishop Funeral Home
Submitted by: Carol Spear Rice

James Lamont Gray, 64, of McAlester, passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Frink Baptist Church on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Monty Thompson will be officiating. An inurnment will follow at Bache Red Oak Cemetery. James was born on December 21, 1959, in McAlester, Oklahoma to Harold and Lorine (Isaac) Gray. James's journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his family, a passion for the outdoors, and a career dedicated to serving his community. James's early years were spent in the town of his birth, where he attended and graduated from McAlester High School. His formative experiences in McAlester shaped him into a man of integrity and compassion, traits that would become the cornerstones of his personal and professional life. On December 23, 2002, James married the love of his life, Judy Bryant, in a heartfelt ceremony in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising their family. James's professional life was characterized by his dedication to the McAlester Department of Human Services, where he worked for over 18 years before retiring. His commitment to helping others was evident in every interaction, and his colleagues and those he served will remember him for his kindness and empathy. A man of the outdoors, James relished in activities such as fishing and camping. He found peace and contentment in the simplicity of nature, and his happiest moments were often spent in the company of family. For James, family was the most important thing, and he made sure to instill this value in his children and grandchildren. James's legacy is carried on by his beloved wife, Judy Gray of the home; his sons, James Gray and Nicholas Gray along with his wife, Cyndi, all of McAlester; his daughters, Mia Gray and her partner, Matt Carpenter of Stillwater, Hailey Gray, and Madeline Gray, both of the home. His life was further enriched by his grandchildren, Tammy Jo of Longtown, Tenaya Perkins, Braden Lewis and his fiance' Maegan Weiher, Aubrey Gray, and Keenan Gray, all of McAlester; and his great-granddaughter, Amaya Lewis, also of McAlester. He is also survived by his brothers, Jimmy Steele, Richard "Rik" Isaac, and Alfred Gray, all of McAlester; and his honorary mother, Bertha Ann Lalli of McAlester. Many other family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents: Harold and Lorine Gray. James's passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family and friends, but the legacy of his love will remain a guiding light for generations to come.