Lloyd Gray

"And then one day I'll cross the river; I'll fight life's final war with pain; and then as death gives way to victory, I'll see the light of glory and I'll know He lives."

Lloyd Dandridge Gray was born to Everett and Edna Gray in Essex County, Virginia, on July 15, 1950. He was known by many names throughout his life: Dude, Big Dumplin', Buddy-Roe, Dave, Gray, and Overcoat.

Lloyd was a devoted member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Caret, Virginia, where he was a dedicated deacon; a longstanding member of the Zion Knights, the Senior Choir, and the Men's Choir; as well as a dynamic Sunday School teacher.

After over 30 years of employment with Washington Gas and Light Company, he retired and committed himself to working around his home. After several years, he decided that he needed more to do with his days. Lloyd was then employed as a driver with Essex County Public Schools. He enjoyed his work and was serious about planting seeds of encouragement, stability, and character in each student.

Lloyd always had a wise crack and loved making a joke of anything and everything. He enjoyed life. He burned hot dogs and ribs for his niece Lucy; dropped everything to watch his niece Taylor whenever she was modeling on TV; counted on niece Shelly to plan the annual family vacation; and loved when niece Kristal came by to watch "The Marty Stewart Show." He looked forward to his sister Diane and brother Gene coming by on the weekends to sit with him. He enjoyed laughing at his nephew Russell's animated discussions; singing alongside his nephew Eugene and his brothers Dick and Wayne; and spending time with and imparting wisdom to his nephew Tike.

Lloyd was a faithful servant to God, a true patron of his church, unflinchingly loyal to his family, a generous neighbor, AN AMAZING HUSBAND to his wife, and AN AMAZING FATHER to his son and daughter. He leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

He leaves to cherish the memories: his wife Ellen Gray; son Joseph "Nick" Byrd; daughter Lori Gray; sister Edith Taylor, who preceded him in death; sister Joyce Diane Gray; brothers Edward "Dick" Smith (Estelle), Reverend Everett Gray (Marjorie), Wayne Gray (Ann), and Gene Gray; his sisters-in-law Jean Ware (Jerome) and Dorothy O'Neal (Robert); his brothers-in-law William Holmes (Mildred), Dean Holmes (Carol), and Allen Taylor; godchildren Diquan Bareford, Destiny Lucas, and Pamela Bareford; his best friend, four-year-old Tyrus "Bowser" Ware; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.


Funeral Home:
Cedell Brooks Funeral Home
25662 A.P. Hill Blvd
Port Royal, VA
US 22535