Tommy Gray

Tom R. Gray, Jr. passed away April 18, surrounded by family and friends. Tommy was born on November 6, 1929, in Duncan, Oklahoma, where he grew up and was quite an athlete. He was the quarterback of the Duncan High 1945 state championship football team before moving to Seminole, Oklahoma, where he played his senior year for "Coach" Gene Corotto. He was a 1947 state champion in track, running a state record 9.6 in the 100-yard dash. After high school, Tommy signed with first-year University of Oklahoma football coach Bud Wilkinson and played on the 1948 team, the undefeated 1949 team, and OU's first National Championship team in 1950. He was lifelong friends with his teammates and coaches. Tommy was a veteran of the Korean War and enjoyed a successful career in the oil and gas business. His family was the center of his life. Tommy is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Beverly; son, Tommy and his wife Susie; daughter, Dianne Mildren and her husband Glynne; grandchildren, Jenny Gray Ferguson (husband David), Marianne Gray Sharpe (husband Aaron), Matt Mildren (wife Meg), Whitney Mildren, Luke Mildren (wife Kelsey); and four great-grandsons. He is also survived by his sister, Cherie Dixon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom R. Gray, Sr. and Louise. Tommy loved life and was a great mentor and coach to his children and grandchildren. He was always the center of the party and loved all of his dear friends and teammates. Tommy and his smile will be missed by all. Memorials may be sent to The Oklahoma Children's Hospital Foundation Heart Center. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 21 at Westminster Presbyterian Church under the direction of Smith & Kernke (May Ave.)