Carlton Leroy Gray

Carlton “Leroy” Gray, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at his home on May 21, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on February 20, 1931, in Morgan City, Louisiana, Leroy lived a life defined by faith, tireless dedication to his businesses, and an enduring love for his family.

Leroy’s passion for boating began in the 1970s at IRA’s Outboards in Morgan City and blossomed into a lifelong pursuit when he founded his own shop, Gray Marine. At the same time, he remained steadfastly committed to his family’s legacy, working at their business, LH Printing and also owning King Hannaford Printers and Binders. But his proudest accomplishments were not found in any title or trade. Among them was the home he lovingly built for his family—crafted with salvaged materials from houses that were removed during the construction of Highway 90, a project he took great pride in.

Later in life, Leroy found joy in the simple pleasures of tending his garden, living on the bayou, attending auctions with his sons, and raising chickens behind his beloved Gray Marine shop. He was happiest surrounded by family and cherished his role as grandpa to his nineteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Some of their fondest memories of him were spent on the water helping him feed the catfish, fishing and going for boat rides.

Above all, Leroy deeply loved his wife of 73 years, Mary Catherine Wise Gray. Their enduring partnership was a cornerstone of his life, and he often expressed how grateful he was to walk through life by her side. In the early years of their marriage, Leroy and Mary Catherine enjoyed attending shows at the Saenger and going dancing with friends. Most of their days, however, were spent at various sporting events watching their children.

Leroy is survived by Mary Catherine and their nine children: Mike Gray, Lenny Gray (Marsha), Pat Gray (Julie), Lee Gray, Danny Gray (Karen), David Gray, Tim Gray (Mary Grace), Louise Mayon (Shane), and Catherine Thomas (Lyle). He was preceded in death by his parents, Della and Leonard Gray, his sister Nelwyn Robison (Lige), his daughter-in-law Becky Gray, his grandson, Patrick R. Gray and sister-in-law Adelaide Wise.

The Gray family extends heartfelt gratitude to his caretakers Kayla, Raquel, Sherri, Kim, Barbara, Judy and Gail. Additionally, they would like to thank Crystal, Teracita, and Jennifer from Hope Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.

A visitation will be held at St. Stephen Catholic Church on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, beginning at 8:00 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place immediately after at Morgan City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Stephen Catholic Church in honor of Leroy.