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Avon – John Demerest Gray was called home by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 1, 2020. He was born on January 28, 1942 in Avon, NC to Ellis and Caroline Gray. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served proudly for 22 years. He retired July 1, 1982 as Chief Warrant Officer 4 at the Elizabeth City Air Station. Upon returning home to Kinnakeet, he joined the Dare County Sheriff’s Department. He enjoyed serving and protecting the community. Johnny retired as a Lieutenant and was loved and respected by all.

Johnny is survived by his wife of 58 years, Gracie Gray; his two daughters, Dana and Alicia Gray; sister, Cheryl McDonald (Allen); brother, Ellis Gray (Mary); nephews, Tony Gray (Dianne), Ellis Gray, III (Patty), Timmy Barnett (Renee), Randy Barnett (Beth); and nieces, Shelia Crow (Ron) and Pamela Gray (Chuck).

Johnny was predeceased by his parents Ellis A. Gray and Caroline; sister, Mary Lou Gray; and sister and brother in Law Elizabeth and Warren Gaskins their son Warren Gaskins, Jr.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at the Gray Family house in Avon, NC.

To express condolences to the family and read the full obituary, please visit the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

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