Carlton ‘Skipper’ Gray Jr.

Posted on March 6, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Carlton “Skipper” Gray Jr., who left this world on March 1, 2026, at the age of 60, just three days shy of his 61st birthday. Skipper was the heart of our family, the fun one, the steady one, the one who made ordinary days unforgettable. Whether it was late-night dance parties in the garage, spontaneous adventures or the firm but loving rule of “no crying at Papa’s house,” he created a home filled with laughter, warmth and safety. His grandchildren will forever remember learning to play baseball in the yard and casting fishing lines with his patient hands guiding theirs. Born on March 4, 1965, in Perry, Skipper grew into a man who valued family above all else. He served in the Navy, then worked as a welder, and was known for his strong work ethic, kindness and love of the outdoors. He found joy in fishing, gardening, working in his yard and watching the Keaton Beach sunset. Skipper would willingly give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. Friends and family alike were drawn to his big heart and infectious smile. Above all, Skipper was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and, above all, Papa. He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. The legacy he leaves behind lives on in the stories we tell, the traditions we continue and the lessons he taught us about love, resilience, hard work and joy. Skipper is survived by: his loving wife, Carla; his daughters, Fallon and her husband, Micah Sheehan, and, Lyndsey and her husband, Doug Hubbard; and his son, Chase and his wife, Kaylee Gray. He was the proud Papa of seven grandchildren: Gracyn, Harper, Elliott, Gale, Leighton, Lincoln and Palmer. He is also survived by his father and stepmother, Carlton “Cotton” and Raynell Gray; his sisters, Cheryl and her husband, John Moore, and Teri and her husband, Mike Smith; and a host of nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Gray; his paternal grandparents, Bessie Joe and Lee Gray; and his maternal grandparents, Eloise Murray and Frank Hillhouse. A celebration of Skipper’s life will be held on Friday, March 6, at 1 p.m. at the home of Cotton Gray, 7441 Puckett Road, in Perry. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that Skipper rests in peace and that the love he shared will carry us forward. We will honor him by teaching these babies to play ball, to fish, to dance late into the night, and to live with the same joy and laughter that defined his life.