Kenneth Gray

Kenneth Gray, 57; passed away Thur. Nov. 8th; Public Viewing held 9 AM to 7 PM Fri. Nov. 16th at Watson's Funeral Home 10913 Superior Ave. Cle 44106. Funeral Services begin 10 AM Sat, Nov. 17th at St. Paul AME Zion 2393 E. 55th Street Cle 44106 Kenneth Gray was born on December 26, 1960, in Shubuta, Mississippi to Lomack and Cinderella Gray, both who preceded Kenneth in death. Kenny, as he was known, was the third of four sons from this union. As a young child, Kenny accepted Jesus Christ as his Personal Savior and was baptized. Throughout his life, the roots of everything he did was grounded in a deep and abiding faith. He feared the Lord and grew into a strong man of character and integrity. He was an active member of Beth-EI AME Zion Church in Cleveland where he served as the Pastor's Stewart. He was educated in the Cleveland Public School District, graduating from John F. Kennedy High School in 1979. Kenny was a hard worker, in fact, he held down a full-time job his senior year in high school and never stopped working. Along with his life's journey, Kenny never met a stranger. His shining personality, infectious smile, and genuine concerns for people of all walks of life made him a friend to all. Kenny was always the kind of man that knew exactly what to say at the exact moment. He was never one to shy away from getting his hands dirty, and yet - when he cleaned up could dress with the best of the best dressed I He was an incredible husband, father, and grandfather. Kenny married his high school sweetheart, Karleen in 2006, and each day since their marriage, they celebrated life together as they embraced the joy of being blessed by our God to unite. They spoiled each other up to the very end and were grateful for both the large and small things that their union accomplished. Kenneth was blessed to have two sons, Kenneth and Kellin. He taught the two of them the value of maintaining a Christian faith, developing a hard work ethic and importance of oneself. He was so very proud of the two of them and often bragged about their various accomplishments to anyone who would listen. He was also a gleefully delighted when he became a grandfather. The sheer joy of being a grandfather radiated each time he spoke of his grandchildren. Kenny learned the ropes of his family business, by working his way up from the bottom to ultimately become the Vice President of L. Gray Barrel & Drum LLC. This family-owned business has been a pillar in the City of Cleveland, since its founding by Lomack Gray in 1978. Through this venture, Kenny, through Gray Barrel was able to employ hundreds of people in the area and over the years spread their personal success to thousands in the local community. Kenny never stopped giving back; he was a 21-year member of the United Black Fund (UBF) of Greater Cleveland, having served as the President of the Associate Board of UBF and was the current occupant of a seat on the General Board of Directors. The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland in Honor of Mr. Kenneth Gray has established a fund in his name. For those who knew Kenny well, knew that he loved his Cleveland Sports Teams. He especially loved baseball, a game that he excelled at in his youth. Kenny and some of his childhood friends have attended twenty-nine (29) straight Home Opener games for the Cleveland Indians. So, whether it was sitting courtside at a Cavaliers game, or in the Dog Pound rooting for the Browns, he always remained loyal to Cleveland's sports teams. Kenny leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted and loving wife Karleen, his sons Kenneth and Kellin, stepsons Curtis, DeMario and Terrell; four grandchildren, Kenley, Khalia, Jalen and Londyn; and one great-grandchild, Kylen. Three brothers Anthony, Sr., Nathaniel, and Lomack. He leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and dear friends. "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most high." Psalm 92:1