Richard "Dick" Gray

Richard “Dick” Gray, 87, of Schellsburg, died on May 25, 2018 at his residence.  He was born on September 17, 1930, in Ithaca, NY, a son of the late Charles M. and Cora (Mosher) Gray. On August 6, 1960 in Binghamton, NY, he married Sallie (Warner) Gray who survives along with the following family: two daughters, Lynne M. Parezo and husband Steve, of Colombia, MD, Lisa A. Moon and husband Chris, of Montgomery Village, MD; a son, Richard J. Gray and wife Kaby, of Montgomery Village, MD; and two grandchildren Luke A. and Troy A. Moon. He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Gray, and a sister, Beatrice Bacorn.

Dick was a member of the Bedford Presbyterian Church. He was the self-appointed but undisputed monarch on Smoky Ridge, Dick was “Mr. Gray” to the younger set, a kindly curmudgeon who enjoyed political debates, all things well-written, the daily newspaper from home and beyond, and first-hand knowledge of all goings-on. The American flag flew on all holidays from the porch of this veteran and proud citizen.

Dick’s devotion to Sallie has been a lesson for all, she always at his side, flowers so often in their home in her honor, at times for no special reason.  They did everything together, and being with them was so enjoyable; they teased one another with respect. Visits from their three children and families always brought such joy. Photos of smiling faces from happier times adorn their home. 

Dick took great pains to tend his property, a bocce-worthy lawn that took him several days of careful cutting to maintain. Riding the mower and wearing his wide-brimmed straw hat, Dick was a welcome sight in the early spring, on a mission but always eager to stop and chat with passing neighbors.  He delighted in the various trees, flowers and shrubs, planted when he and Sallie built their home. The iris were legendary, lining the road with brilliant and amazing colors, many of which survive among the neighbors’ yards.

A respectful listener, Dick was a welcome guest at neighborhood gatherings. One needed only to see that hint of a smile to know he was working up to a response. Emails from Dick often contained deep concern for the state of our country, political humor, musings and cartoons about growing older, an occasional risqué joke, vintage photos from “the good old days”, wonders of the world. Keeping a step ahead of his sharp wit was never easy.

Challenges to his health in recent years never altered his spirit or his spark, dimmed only a bit during a harsh winter and limited mobility. Proud and independent, Dick nonetheless graciously accepted the help of caring neighbors. Having him pass our way, he will never truly be gone. We are grateful to have known him.  A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home, in Bedford.  Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.