Micky Gray

As all who knew and loved James “Micky” Gray will certainly attest, he was the kind of man who could find joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a constant source of strength, and he was a powerful role model of determination, facing every challenge that came his way with grit. A devoted father, uncle, grandfather, and caretaker to his pets, Micky was happiest in the moments shared with his loved ones. His goofy sense of humor could put a smile on anyone’s face, and he loved getting a rise out of those around him with his famous practical jokes. Already so missed, Micky will be forever loved and remembered.

Micky was born on June 18, 1956 in Alabama to Gloria Williams Gray and James “Bud” Gray. His given name was James Michael, but he came to be known as Micky. His father was in the army, serving during the Korean Conflict in the mid-1950s’s and the family moved to bases throughout the country and even to Germany before he retired. When his dad retired, the family settled in Michigan.

Growing up, Micky was a typical mischievous boy of his generation. He was raised alongside his siblings, Mary, Jeff, and Connie. Micky was very adventurous as a child. Once, in Alabama, he was out looking for frogs and lizards and ended up getting chased by a brown bear! Micky also landed himself in more than his share of trouble. In the third grade, he was kicked out of school for bringing cigarettes. Micky was close to his stepdad, Harvey Wagers and his Grandma Maude Williams of Lawton throughout his formative years. He joined the Navy when he was 17 but returned to Michigan to be close to Granny Maud” and the family.

Later in life, Micky was blessed to become a father to his five sons, Kevin, Michael Jr., Christopher, Andrew, and Rickey. He strove to spend quality time with each of his kids. In order to provide for himself and those who depended on him, Micky built a successful career for himself with Knouse Foods over the span of 30 years. He maintained machines, cooked applesauce, and even made his own tea.

As his family grew to include Brooklynn, Lydah, Gabriel, and Xander, Micky loved getting to know each of his grandchildren. He made it to every dance recital and important event he could. Micky enjoyed being present and having conversations with his grandkids, especially when he could talk tech with Gabe. Micky had his own special way of making sure his loved ones knew just how much they were treasured.

When he wasn’t working or spending time with his family, Micky enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors. He had a true love for nature and enjoyed catch and release fishing, and the Upper Peninsula was one of his favorite places to be. Micky was passionate about eating well. He listened to all kinds of music, from Madonna to AC/DC. Micky was a tinkerer through and through, and he liked working with his hands. He would take things apart just to put them back together, and he even built lawnmowers for his sons. Micky enjoyed tech and computers as well. He loved audiobooks, fantasy, and sci-fi, and The Wheel of Time and the Dune films were some of his favorites.

As we gather to celebrate the overflowing life of James “Micky” Gray, it is easy to see how fiercely and unconditionally he loved those who meant the world to him. He could always be counted on to crack a joke and get everyone laughing, and he savored each and every moment spent with his friends and family. Although life will not be the same without Micky here, he leaves behind a loving legacy that his loved ones can be proud to pick up and carry on in his footsteps.

James “Micky” Gray of Lawrence age 70, died on July 14, 2026. He was born June 18, 1956, in Alabama to James “Bud” Gray and Gloria Williams. Micky was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Harvey Wagers and his sister and brother-in-law Connie and Richard Kirby. Surviving are his children: Kevin (Lorraine) Kirby, Michael Gray, Jr., Christopher (Leslie) Gray, Andrew Gray, and Ricky Gray; grandchildren: Brooklynn, Elise, Lydah, Gabriel and Xander; siblings: Mary (Mark) Horgan and Jeff (Lucinda) Gray; many nieces and nephews; his cat Chevy and his bearded dragon Bugger.

Please join us for a Life Story Visitation on Saturday, July 25, at 12 PM at Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Homes, 60900 Michigan 40, Paw Paw, (269) 657-3870. Burial at Harrison Cemetery in Decatur. Celebrate Micky’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com.