Commerce - Jack B. Gray, Jr., 83, of Commerce, Texas, passed away on November 16, 2025. He was born October 18, 1942, in Maryville, Missouri, to Jack B. and Eunice Gray. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Gladys Hansen Gray, his parents, and his brother, Nick Gray. He is survived by daughters Kristin Breazeale (Jon) and Kathryn Scott (Jason), and grandchildren Justin Scott, Emma Breazeale, and Grayson Breazeale.

Jack graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 1964 and earned his M.A. in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma in 1969. He spent his career in higher education, healthcare, and community leadership, serving in roles at East Texas State University (East Texas A&M), the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, Collin County Community College District, Hunt Regional Healthcare, and as interim president of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce. He was a longtime Rotarian and a member of First United Methodist Church in Commerce.

Jack was known for his sense of humor, infectious smile, and love of a good pun. He built deep and lasting friendships and was widely admired for his kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit. He loved his family fiercely and leaves behind a legacy of service, laughter, and unwavering love.

A celebration of life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Commerce on Monday, November 24th at 11:00. Reception following in Fellowship Hall at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Donor Funded Scholarships at East Texas A&M via this link: https://www.etamu.edu/give-donor-scholarships/. Please select the General Scholarship fund and indicate that your donation is in memory of Jack B. Gray. Donations can also be mailed to: East Texas A&M University Foundation, PO Box 3425, Commerce, TX 75429-3425.