James H Gray Sr.

James Herman Gray was born on April 16, 1941, to the late John and Sadie Gray in Washington, D.C. He departed this life at the age of 81 on Wednesday, August 24, 2022. James was affectionately known as Herman, Herb, Captain, New Shoes, Herby-Derby, Grandpop and James Brown. On July 14,2022, James celebrated 60 years of matrimony to his wife, Catherine Jean Gray. He attended St. Mary's Public School until his family relocated to Baltimore, Maryland. Then he attended the Baltimore City School system. Herman was a hard worker and had worked at various jobs which includes: construction, car wash, janitorial maintenance, Botany 500 Clothing Factory and Maryland Chicken Factory. After 18 years, he retired from Disabled American Veterans (D.A.V.). Herman received his sacraments and was a dedicated member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where he was a member of several of several committees. The committees that he served on were The Knights of Columbus, Holy Name Society and Hospitality. He loved watching westerns. He played softball, horseshoes and card games. He adored James Brown and was known for performing James Brown sliding-dancing moves at family gatherings and parties. Crowds of family and friends would come out just to see him dance to James Brown's famous hits. Hoping to strike it rich at the nickel and penny slot machines in Atlantic City, he saved mayonnaise jars filled with plenty of coins. Herman was a diehard fan of Baltimore baseball and football teams. He could write a blog of the Orioles sweeping the New York Yankees and the Ravens beating the Washington Commanders. Herman made up silly songs just to make us laugh. He had a good sense if humor, hearty laugh, loved to cook and grill, His breakfast wasn't complete until he has scrapple, Maxwell House coffee and a can of Pet or Carnation milk. He was an incredible man and always in good spirits. He lived a full life and made enormous sacrifices for his family. The hearts that Herman touched has made an irreplaceable impact. He was a proud man of good faith. His love and compassion for others is passed on by his family. Herman leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Catherine Jean Gray; his children, Angela Walton, Catherine T. Gray, and James H. Gray, Jr; his grandchildren, Devone, Monique, Stephanie, Christine, and Amber; his great-grandson, Gabriel. He also leaves to mourn his siblings, William Gray (Brenda), Vertie Gray, and Annie Gray, and a host of family and friends. Additionally, his special friends known as the "Spirit Street Crew". who will fondly remember him. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Marie A. Grey; and his siblings, Arbutus Gray, Allean Moses, Rose Etta Floyd, Sadie Finney, and Helen Peaker. Herman's presence in our life will be forever missed. However, he is now at his eternal rest in the loving arms of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Tributes

James H Gray Sr.

April 16, 1941 - August 24, 2022