Richard Wesley Gray, Sr.-affectionately known as "Daddy" and "Papa"-peacefully entered eternal rest after a long, full life rooted in love, faith, and unwavering dedication to family. Born on April 9, 1935 in Williamsburg County, South Carolina, he was the cherished son of Lizzie Valentine McCrae and Richard Wesley Jessie Calhoun Gray.

Richard's journey led him to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he built both a home and a legacy. He worked for a short time at the Winston Leaf Tobacco Plant before joining Stuart Buick, where he transported and delivered vehicles across state lines. During this time on the road, Richard developed an uncanny ability to navigate highways and map out the quickest routes from state to state-earning him the affectionate nickname "The Human Atlas." He later found his lifelong professional home at the Winston-Salem Journal. There, through hard work, loyalty, and quiet strength, he devoted 39 years of service before retiring. His work ethic and commitment were a reflection of the values he carried throughout his life.

Richard was preceded in death by his first love and devoted wife of 44 years, Carrie Coleman Gray; two sisters, Annie Jarvis (Jay) of Sacramento, California, and Minnie Robinson (Ezell) of Winston-Salem, NC; a step-daughter, Jannifer Dumas (Everett); and two grandchildren, Clarence Hart, Jr. and LaRhonda Hart. Their memories remain woven into the story of his life and the hearts of those who continue to cherish him.

He leaves to honor his legacy his wife, Berniece Gray of Winston-Salem; his children, Richard W. Gray II (Tracy) and Shanika Gray; his sister, Mary Wilder (Marshall); and his extended family, who embraced him just as he embraced them: four step-daughters: Barbara Hart, Darleen McNeil (Virgil), Cynthia Cannon-Geer, and Angela Cannon; and three step-sons: Talmadge Coley, Eddie Cannon, Jr. and Michael Cannon all of Winston-Salem, NC.
Richard's joy was multiplied through his grandchildren-Dr. Carrie Murchison, Renecia Gray, Richard Gray III (Ramia), Everett Dumas II, Micah Gray, and London Gray, all of Winston-Salem, NC, and his honorary granddaughter, Zinoviah Robinson of Lexington, NC. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Jahshaun Hart, Rylan Gray and Reagan Gray, who were a constant source of pride and delight.

He is also survived by a supportive and loving brother-in-law, Frederick Coleman (Home), whose presence enriched his life; a host of nieces and nephews, as well as two faithful, longtime friends and fishing buddies, Mr. Willie Mouzon (70 years) and Mr. James Irby, bonds that stood the test of time.

Richard's life was marked by quiet wisdom, warm laughter and a deep love for those God placed in his care. Whether he had known you for years or had just met you, you could always count on him to share a story, offer a smile, or make you feel welcome. He was a protector, a provider and a steady anchor for generations. To know him was to know genuine kindness-a man who gave freely, loved deeply and lived honorably.

Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the hearts of the family and friends he cherished. His life, well lived and well loved, remains a blessing and a legacy to all who were touched by his presence.

May his soul rest in everlasting peace.

Homegoing Celebration of Life will be held at 12:30 PM on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Union Baptist Church (WS) with family visitation at 12:00 PM prior to the service. Interment will follow at Piedmont Memorial Gardens. A public viewing will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025 from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM at the funeral home.