.

David Hutchins Gray, 75, of the Arbor Ridge of Stanleyville independent living community passed away Monday June 19th following a brief illness.

David was born in Elkin, NC to the late Marie Hutchins Gray and the late James Sheridan Gray.  David is survived by his brother, James S. Gray and his wife Frances of Elkin, his nieces Anne-marie Douglass (Scott) of Summerfield, Katy Shook (Ryan) of Edenton, their children, and a dedicated friend, Mike Nail of Winston Salem.

David was a kind and gentle soul who never met stranger.  His amazing ability to remember people, events, sport results and even the details of the weather on a certain day was one of his most exceptional gifts. David enjoyed spending special times with family and friends especially birthdays and holidays.  He thoroughly enjoyed spectator sports, including pulling for the Carolina Panthers, wrestling, and never missed a Sunday afternoon NASCAR race cheering on his favorite drivers.

David was a man of faith and was evident in all aspects of his life.  He was a longtime member of Beck's Baptist Church in Winston Salem where he was always one of the first persons to arrive on Sunday mornings to help prepare the Sunday school classes.  David loved being a part of the church community and fellowship of Beck's.

After completing school in 1967, David was employed by Goodwill Industries in Winston Salem.  There he was known by everyone as a dedicated, hard-working employee and ultimately retired after 42 years of service.

The family would like to thank all those who have been an important part of David's wonderful life.  We would specifically like to thank the Arbor Ridge community for their support over the past years.

A memorial graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 27th at 11:00 am at Hollywood Cemetery in Elkin with Pastor Bobby Vaughn and Pastor David Renegar of Beck's Baptist Church officiating.

Memorials in David's memory may be made to Beck's Baptist Church or a charity of one's choosing.

John Kennedy, Funeral Director is assisting the Gray family with funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.jkennedyfsl.com.