James Gray

James R. Gray, 90, of Clearfield died on Friday, June 24, 2022 at McKinley Health Center, Brookville.

He was born on May 20, 1932 in Clearfield, a son of the late Robert and Louise (Turner) Gray.

Mr. Gray was the owner, along with his brother Robert K. and father Robert D., of Gray Battery and Auto Supply, Clearfield from 1950 to 1983 when he retired. After his retirement, he started Gray Engine Service, Clearfield, along with his daughter, Debbie.

He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church, Clearfield and had attended Mt. Joy United Methodist Church, Clearfield. Mr. Gray attended St. Francis School through 8th grade and then graduated from Clearfield High School in 1950. Mr. Gray served in the Army during the Korean Conflict, having been stationed in Germany during active duty and then also served with the Army Reserves. He also was a life member of Clearfield Fire Department Co. No. 1 and the Clearfield Volunteer Fire Department, having a total of 72 years of service. He had been instrumental in bringing the first heavy rescue truck to Pennsylvania, affectionately known as 'The Monster'. He served as the assistant rescue Chief and Chairman of the Ambulance Board.

Mr. Gray was also one of the first original EMT's of Clearfield and served on the Clearfield EMS Board, holding the position of Vice Chairman. He served on Clearfield Boro Council, the last two years as President, the Clearfield Hospital Board of Directors for three years and then Citizens Advisory Committee of the Clearfield Hospital, the Clearfield County Fair Board for three years, Clearfield Municipal Authority as Vice Chairman. He was also a member Benevolent Protective Order of Elks No. 540, Clearfield.

Above all, Mr. Gray believed in volunteer community service, where he cherished the opportunity to help people face to face.

He is survived by his daughter, Debbie Gray and husband John Lingenfelter of Curwensville. He is also survived by his wife, Joan (Ogden) Gray, Clearfield; a niece, Martha (Gray) Sakell; and a nephew, Richard J. Gray.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Priscilla 'Susie' (Bartell) Gray on September 3, 1997 and whom he wed July 12, 1955 in Winchester, VA. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Robert K. Gray and William Gray.

A memorial service will be held at the Beardsley Funeral Home and Crematory, Clearfield on Friday, July 15, 2022 at 3 PM.

Visitation will be on Friday, July 15, 2022 at the funeral home from 1-3 PM.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Clearfield Volunteer Fire Department Rescue Truck, PO Box 709, Clearfield, PA 16830.

Beardsley Funeral Home and Crematory, Clearfield is in charge of arrangements.

To sign the on-line guest book go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.