William "Bill" Gray

William “Bill” Gray, 76, of Metamora passed away Tuesday, December 25, 2018 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on February 17, 1942 in Cawood, KY the son of William E. and Hilda L. Blanton Gray.  He married Barbara L. Bennett on May 17, 1963 in Lee County, VA.  

Surviving are his wife, one daughter Tammy (Scott) Baynard of Creve Coeur, IL, Brian Gray of Peoria, Billy Gray of East Peoria and Adam Gray of Canton, IL; four grandchildren Amanda (Ryan) Brunsman, Randy (Jessica) Blackmore, Brandon (Paige) Gray and Samantha Gray. Also surviving are five great grandchildren along with three sisters Donna (Tom) Freeman, Kelly (Jim) White all of Rockholds, KY and Cathy (Edward) Heaton of Jellico, TN.  His parents, one infant child and one brother preceded him in death.

He was an honorably discharged U.S. Army Veteran.  Bill was employed at Komatsu America Corp. in Peoria for 30 years, last working as a shot blaster retiring in 2003.  After his retirement, he and Barbara enjoyed traveling the United States for several years.  He then worked part time for Dignity Memorial Funeral Service providers in Peoria for 8 years. Bill enjoyed any and all outdoor activities including fishing, and hunting. He was a member of Bayview Baptist Church for 50 years and was active as a youth pastor, bus captain and worked as a sound technician.  A favorite pastime for him was having gatherings such as cookouts, and family over for dinner. 

Cremation rites have been accorded.  A memorial service will be held 10:00am Saturday, January 12, 2019 at Bay View Baptist Church 22648 Grosenbach Rd in Washington. Pastor Keith D. Thibo will officiate.  Visitation will be from 9:00am until his time of service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name may be given to Bayview Baptist Church.  To share a memory or send a condolence, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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