Jim Gray

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

James Louis “Jim” Gray, age 84, peacefully passed away on July 2, 2024 after a lengthy illness.

Jim was born on July 14, 1930 in Ft. Smith AR to John C. and Ethelyn (Ward) Gray. They moved to Joplin in 1938 where Jim lived the rest of his life after attending Joplin Public Schools.

Graduating from Joplin High School in 1948, he soon joined the U.S. Army and was eventually stationed in Fairbanks, AL during the Korean War. His Alaskan stories were fascinating.

He married high school sweetheart Carolyn Carlstead in March of 1952. Jim and Carolyn traveled the world, as he had promised her. The travel stories added to Jim’s collection of interesting tales to tell.

Jim’s “Man Cave” 3 car garage, and the many vehicles that came and went his way, were legendary. His prize was his first car he rebuilt at age thirteen. That garage was filled with country music, beer, and love. He relished all things related to auto racing and attended many Daytona 500 races, starting from the early days of racing.

He retired in 1985 after working over 30 years at Sperry Vickers, then later, retired after a five-year run at Federal Express. He will be remembered for his patience, positivity and happy demeanor. He was a steadfast husband to Carolyn and devoted father to his two girls and the many canines he affectionately called his other “children”.

He is predeceased by his wife, Carolyn C. Gray, of Joplin and daughter Patricia L. Gray of Kansas City.

Survivors include daughter Susan Gray Tuncten and husband Serdar Tuncten of Kansas City, MO; Granddaughter Sara Tuncten Carpenter and husband Jerrod Carpenter of Kansas City, MO.

A Memorial Visitation will be held at Mason-Woodard Funeral Home, 3701 East 7th St, Joplin from 4-6 pm on July 19, 2024. Interment will be at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church.

Memorial Donation Suggestions:
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 706 Byers Ave, Joplin, MO 64801
Joplin Humane Society, 140 Emperor Lane, Joplin, MO 64801