Paul A. Gray's Obituary
In loving memory of Paul A. Gray, who passed away on October 8th, 2002. Paul was born in Deep Creek, Washington (near Spokane), July 12th, 1917. In 1918, he accompanied his father, who traveled to Tacoma to found the church that became TacomaÂ's Life Center. Paul was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Viola, his brother Harold, and niece Marcille. Paul is survived by a sister Carolyn (Jerry) Krenelka; sister-in-law Alma Gray, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Al and Wilma Rodahl; a daughter Gloria (Stan) Seely; son Gilbert (Peggy) Gray; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Paul was a devout and active Christian. Through the years Paul served TacomaÂ's Life Center in a multitude of roles, including deacon, vice-president of the church board, and chairman of the Life Christian School Board for over 20 years, as well as serving as a Sunday School teacher, orchestra and choir member. In recognition of his years of service, Paul was recently selected as the layman of the year for the Assemblies of God Northwest District. Northwest College in Kirkland was also close to PaulÂ's heart. He was in the second graduating class and later served on the board for over 40 years. Because of his distinguished service, Paul was awarded an honorary doctorate from the college. Paul operated an office interiors business in downtown Tacoma for many years. He also served his community through his involvement in the downtown Rotary Club, Tacoma Planning Commission and Goodwill Board. One of PaulÂ's activities that brought particular joy was serving on a committee that successfully brought a family centered, inspirational television channel to this area. Anyone that knew Paul well, knew him as a kind, gracious, generous and faithful person. He was faithful to his God, family, church, and community. Paul will be greatly missed, but because of his commitment to Christ, his family and friends know that he is rejoicing today. A memorial service will be held at Life Center, 1717 S. Union, Tacoma on Tuesday, October 15th at 1:30 P.M. Viewing will be Sunday October 13 from 12:00 noon to 9:00 P.M. at Mountain View Funeral Home in Tacoma. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up at Life Center in PaulÂ's honor. This fund will help students attend Life Christian School/Academy or Northwest College, where they will be challenged to develop the values Paul exemplified so well.
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