Obituaries
Stephen E. Gray
December 28, 2025
Stephen E Gray, age 69, of Norwalk, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, December 28, 2025.
He was born November 6, 1956, in Bucyrus, OH.
Known to most as ‘Coach Gray’, Steve devoted his life to helping the young men who came through his basketball program realize their potential. He believed in hard work, discipline, and character, and he had a rare ability to motivate and uplift those around him. His influence extended far beyond wins and losses; he shaped lives, built confidence, and taught lessons that endured long after you stepped off the court.
Above all, Steve was a loving husband, father, and Grampy. He was the rock of his family - present, supportive, and endlessly proud. His love was evident in countless ways, both spoken and unspoken, and his family was the greatest joy of his life.
To his countless friends, Steve was loyal, generous, and kind. He was someone others could depend on for guidance, laughter, and unwavering support. His warmth and authenticity left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Steve will be remembered not only for what he achieved on the court, but for who he was. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the values he embodied every day.
He is survived by his loving wife, Susan (Tellor) Gray; daughters – Elise (Matt) Kirkland, Kelsey (Ashley) Gray, Kailyn (Chris) Kabat; grandchildren – Jameson, Eloise, Jude, Nyle; parents – Richard and Inez (Heydinger) Gray; siblings - Jim (Jennifer) Gray, Scott (Michele) Gray, Sandy (Mike) Shafer; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Robin Gray.
Visitation for family and friends will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 2:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Evans Funeral Home, 314 E. Main Street, Norwalk. A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 91 E. Main Street, Norwalk. Burial will follow at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Milan, and a luncheon at St. Anthony Catholic Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund is being setup in his memory to continue to support Norwalk student athletes for years to come. Donations can be made to the Norwalk Athletic Boosters care of the Coach Gray Memorial Fund.
Stephen E. Gray
December 28, 2025
Stephen E Gray, age 69, of Norwalk, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, December 28, 2025.
He was born November 6, 1956, in Bucyrus, OH.
Known to most as ‘Coach Gray’, Steve devoted his life to helping the young men who came through his basketball program realize their potential. He believed in hard work, discipline, and character, and he had a rare ability to motivate and uplift those around him. His influence extended far beyond wins and losses; he shaped lives, built confidence, and taught lessons that endured long after you stepped off the court.
Above all, Steve was a loving husband, father, and Grampy. He was the rock of his family - present, supportive, and endlessly proud. His love was evident in countless ways, both spoken and unspoken, and his family was the greatest joy of his life.
To his countless friends, Steve was loyal, generous, and kind. He was someone others could depend on for guidance, laughter, and unwavering support. His warmth and authenticity left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Steve will be remembered not only for what he achieved on the court, but for who he was. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the values he embodied every day.
He is survived by his loving wife, Susan (Tellor) Gray; daughters – Elise (Matt) Kirkland, Kelsey (Ashley) Gray, Kailyn (Chris) Kabat; grandchildren – Jameson, Eloise, Jude, Nyle; parents – Richard and Inez (Heydinger) Gray; siblings - Jim (Jennifer) Gray, Scott (Michele) Gray, Sandy (Mike) Shafer; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Robin Gray.
Visitation for family and friends will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 2:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Evans Funeral Home, 314 E. Main Street, Norwalk. A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 91 E. Main Street, Norwalk. Burial will follow at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Milan, and a luncheon at St. Anthony Catholic Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund is being setup in his memory to continue to support Norwalk student athletes for years to come. Donations can be made to the Norwalk Athletic Boosters care of the Coach Gray Memorial Fund.