Robert Lee Gray Jr.

Robert Lee Gray Jr.  was born on October 26, 1940 in Bakersfield, California to Robert Lee Gray Sr. and Myrtle (Way) Bostwick.  As a child he grew up in Huntington Beach, California before the family moved to a farm near Scio, Oregon where Robert attended high school.  Robert joined the United States Navy in 1958.  He would serve for four years before being honorably discharged.  He then settled in Ridgecrest, California working for his Father-in-law in the concrete business.  On January 1st of 1968, he moved his growing family to Scio to take over the family farm, raising cattle and growing grass seed. Robert would go to work as a Dryer Tender for Willamette Industries, Later, he would also meet Susan Swank.  The two married on June 29, 1991.  This would welcome 16 wonderful years of marriage before Susan’s passing in 2007.  Family was very important to Robert and he was blessed with a big one.  He would spend time with them going fishing, working around the farm, experiencing nature and the local wildlife. He also enjoyed hunting, playing Keno and watching the stock market.  Elvis and Johnny Cash were a few of his favorite musicians. His shared his love of God with friends at Calvary Chapel Monmouth/Independence.  On February 18, 2020, Robert passed away at his home on the farm.  He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Myrtle, his wife, Susan Kay Gray and grandchild, Taylor Lathrop.  He is survived by his children, Robert Gray (Rita), Ronald Gray (Angela), Randy Lathrop (Lori), Russell Gray Lathrop(Shelby), Regina Lathrop (Matt); and grandchildren, Shelby Baca, Tucker Gray, Wyatt Gray, Rustin Gray, Kiaya Gray, Jonathan Lathrop, , William Lathrop and Alex Lathrop.  A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday February 29th at 1pm at Calvary Chapel, 1475 Monmouth St. Independence, Oregon 97351.  A private inurnment will take place at a later time. In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to Lebanon Meals on Wheels- 80 Tangent St. Lebanon, Or 97355.  541-451-1139