Tony Wayne Gray, Jr., age 64, went home to be with Jesus on June 21, 2025, after a long illness. Tony was born in Sealevel, NC on Oct. 19, 1960 to Alice (Lester) Shay and Tony Wayne Gray, Sr. He worked with his dad on a fishing boat in Atlantic, NC for 8 years. He started his own business, TWG Construction, LLC, and worked construction for 30 years. On July 1, 2000, he married Maria Gray.
Tony was a member of Penn Yan United Methodist Church, serving in the Praise Band, and on Trustees, and the Staff-Parish Relations Committee. He did home visits and brought communion to the homebound and those in nursing homes, and served as a greeter and at the Community Café for many years. He loved fishing, riding his motorcycle, hunting, and collecting guns. He was known for his strong faith, his friendly and outgoing personality, and his big heart that loved to serve. He loved to talk about the many ways he saw God at work around him. His big, bright smile and his “Top o’ the mornin’ to ya!” could light up a room. Tony had a great love for all his grandchildren.
Tony was predeceased by his parents, his sister Penny Willis. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Maria; his sons Tony (and Heather) Gray III and Christopher (and Emily) Gray of NC; stepsons Joshua (and Lori) Colf of Dundee and Justin (and Cristina) Colf of Victor; grandchildren Laci Gray, Chloe Gray, Eli Gray, Tyler Gray, AnnaBelle Colf, Christopher Colf, Hayden Colf, and Cameron Colf; and brothers Kenneth Gray, David (and Jessica) Gray, Michael (and Tanya) Gray, Dale (and Stacey) Gray, Randy Goodwin, Joseph (and LaDonna) Goodwin; and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Penn Yan United Methodist Church, 166 Main St., Penn Yan, on Saturday, July 12 at 11:30 AM, with Rev. Kristen Allen officiating. Gifts in memory of Tony may be given to Penn Yan United Methodist Church.
Thoughts and Prayers for all the family and friends. Tony was a hardworking and loving man. We started hanging out back in the mid 70’s when he lived in NC. We later married and had 2 wonderful boys. He always spent time with them when he was home. They loved the water and fishing. Years later he moved to NY but stayed in touch with them as much as he could. Everyone here knew him by his nickname Buddy. He will be missed by everyone dearly! No more pain or suffering! May You Rest In Peace Buddy!