Paul "Chief" William Gray, CMC, USN (Retired) passed away in his home on September 17, 2016 at age 74. Paul was born in Brooklyn, NY on April 26, 1942, the third son of James and Marion.
Paul served as a proud member of the United States Navy for 30 years, most spent as a Seabee, and retired as a Construction Mechanic Chief (CPO). His long list of honors includes the Bronze Star with Valor for his leadership in combat at and behind enemy lines in Vietnam, three Purple Hearts, and a Navy Commendation Medal with Valor for service in Israel and Lebanon. He then worked for the City of Clearwater, FL.
Paul is survived by his sons, Paul Andrew and Joseph Anthony, daughter Christina, and his grandsons, Lorenzo, Lucien, and Austin. He was preceded in death by his wife of 16 years Nina
Paul was active in his community including assisting with Sunday School at his church. Of his many accomplishments he was most proud of his 35 years sober of his work with the Boy Scouts as Assistant Scout Master where he taught independence, honor, and history. He was an active collector of military and Boy Scout memorabilia and always willing to share his knowledge, expertise, and know-how.
A service will be held to remember him Thursday, September 22 at 1:30 pm at First United Methodist Church in St. Petersburg. He will be interred at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL with an honor guard and committal ceremony at 10:00 am on Friday, September 23.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to make a donation to the Boy Scouts of America.