Thornton Thomas "Toby" Gray, Jr. was born to the union of Thornton Thomas Gray, Sr. and B. Margaret Pyles January 6, 1947, in Kansas City, Kansas.

He was educated in the Kansas City Missouri School District graduating from Southeast High School in 1965.  After graduation, Toby became a proud Marine.  He served in the Marine Corps from February 8, 1966, to March 27, 1970, serving two tours in Vietnam.

Toby was very active in church. He loved reading his Bible and singing gospel songs. On March 11, 1984, he was duly ordained and qualified to preach and teach the word of God and perform all religious ceremonies.

Toby was a member and Associated Pastor of Greater Bethel Missionary Baptist Church under the proud leadership of Pastor Victor Lee.

On August 20, 2006, Thornton married Jennifer Jackson Gray, the love of his life.

On Saturday, April 24, 2021, Toby Gray departed this life to dwell with Christ for eternity.  He was preceded in death by his father, Thornton Thomas Gray, Sr.; two sisters, Patricia Ann Ross and Paula Surprise Gray.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Jennifer Gray of the home; his mother, B. Margret Pyles; three daughters, Terra Johnson, Lisa Gills and Sheryl Gills; one brother, Glenn Thomas Gray; two sisters, Mary Ashley (Milton), Sheila Thomas (Warren), eleven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life Services for Mr. Gray will be held 11:00 A.M. Friday, May 7, 2021, at Greater Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.  Burial 12:30 P.M., Monday, May 10, 2021, Leavenworth National Cemetery. Friends may call from 10:00 A.M. until service time Friday at the church.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. ELEY & SONS FUNERAL CHAPEL.