Dr. Gerald Eldon Gray
March 9th, 2020
It is with profound sorrow that the family of Jerry Gray announces his peaceful passing at age 84 on March 9, 2020: a much loved and loving husband, dad, grandad, father-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. Jerry will be sadly missed and forever loved by his wife of 6l years, Beverley; children Brooke, Dana (Lana), Megan (Scott), Drew, Corrie (Trevor); as well as cherished grandchildren Jada and Liam Gray, Madison Gray, Shannon and Robert (Olivia Hunter) Sweeney; his beloved lap dog Annie and all the granddogs.
Jerry was born in Moose Jaw to loving parents Bea and Eldon (Al) Gray and lived his entire life in Regina, a place he loved so very much. Following graduation from Central Collegiate, where he excelled at track and field and football, Jerry attended UBC. He played football for the UBC Thunderbirds and graduated with a degree in Physical Education and a Professional Teaching Certificate. It was then that he went on a blind date and met the love of his life, Bev.
Jerry began his teaching career at Martin Collegiate in 1959, where he was the first football coach of the Martin Monarchs. He attended the University of Oregon, earning Masters in both Physical Education and in Health, and a Doctorate in Education. These degrees took place over several summers and one sabbatical year with Bev, five children, and dog in tow. There were so many wonderful family times and adventures in Eugene, Oregon. Jerry thoroughly enjoyed a long and distinguished career as Professor in the Faculty of Education at the U of R. He often said it wasn't like having a job as he loved going to work every day! His career concluded with a final honour as Professor Emeritus after 33 years of teaching.
The family acknowledges and thanks Remy and staff for the loving care provided to Jerry at Cherished Hearts Personal Care Home for the past six months. And, to Dr. Joanne McLeod, an earth angel: the knowledge and compassionate care given by you and the team to Jerry and his family during his final week at the Pasqua’s MSU was exceptional. We thank you so very much. As per Jerry's wishes, the family will celebrate his life on a warm summer day, throwing a football around and enjoying square hamburgers. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you remember our dear Jerry with a nice long walk.
Messages:
Dear Bev I am so sorry to learn of Gerry's passing. Gerry hired me to fill in at the U of Regina during 1978-80 while one of his faculty was on leave. I experienced Gerry to be a wonderful role model of the highly committed and enthusiastic academician who successfully impacted his students, colleagues, university, community and field of study in myriad positive ways. He was simply outstanding! After leaving the U of Regina, and following in Gerry's footsteps, I went on to earn my Ph.D. at the University of Oregon and pursue a career in higher education. I have never forgotten Gerry's kindness to me and my family. Sending love and best wishes to you and the family. Dennis Caine
Bev & family: So sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. I remember school days with Jerry and how popular he was with everyone. He will be remembered for his many accomplishments and contributions to education. My thoughts and prayers are with you Bev and family during these difficult days. Sincerely, Darlyne Kober
Dear Gray family, We were very saddened to hear of Jerry's passing. He was such a great guy - always wearing a friendly grin and so happy to engage in any kind of conversation! How fortunate we consider ourselves to have had such a kind and wonderful person in our lives. Love to you all, The Antochows
My dear friend, Bev and all your family I was so sorry to get your sad news this morning. Words are so inadequate at a time when you have lost your lifetime partner. You did everything possible to make his last days as loving and comfortable as you could. You and Jerry had many happy years together and as I go into my second year of widowhood, memories come back at times when I least expect them (as I am sure will happen to you} You will be so grateful for the love and caring your friends and neighbours will give you as well as the love of your dear family. I am hoping that you and I will be able to see each other again soon, as you so kindly suggested in your letter. My sympathy and warmest thoughts are with you. Hugs and much love, Hud
Bev and family, I am sorry to learn of Gerry's passing. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Sincerely, Marge Badham
I never met your dad, but I can tell how wonderful he must have been just by knowing you. We reflect the best parts of our parents thanks to the loving way they raised us. Take comfort in your memories as you grieve. Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Be comforted that Jerry will remain in your hearts and minds, forever. Sympathy and Love to you all.
The bark wood spirit Uncle Jerry carved and gave to us reflects his passion and insight into Life. We offer our condolences.
Sending sympathy and love to you all. xoxo
Thinking of you all. My comfort for your loss.
Praying for you all much love
We are holding you all in our hearts and send our deep condolences. xo
Today I happened to think of Dr Grey as I have occasionally through the years. I googled his name and was saddened to find his obituary. The first two years of Martin Collegiate’s opening Jerry was my teacher and coach for football, basketball, track & field, volleyball, etc. I must note our teams did well. Jerry also was my basketball coach at Regina Teachers College. It was largely Jerry’s influence that led me to become a Physical Education teacher and eventually the Director of Education in the Battleford School Division. I have maintained contact with a number of fellow students from those years and we all share the same exceptional opinions of Jerry as a teacher and person. Jerry once invited Martin’s basketball team to his home for a get together and as a very young man I discovered Jerry also had a beautiful and gracious wife who could cook really well while also looking after a small baby. Mrs. Grey, thank you for that memorable occasion