Donald Samuel 'Don' Gray

Donald Samuel Gray departed this world on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, just three days after his sixtieth birthday. I like to think he left us so he could move on and perfect his talent of carpentry, or to find a new fishing hole, or maybe one of his well-known and often spoken mottos he lived by, “wild till I die” was finally outgrown. Regardless of why this beloved, stubborn man had to leave us, his passing has come too soon, and he will be greatly missed.
Don was born in Denver and lived almost every one of his sixty years in Colorado. He was a music-jamming, rager party-throwing and happy guy. He was as stubborn as can be - so much so that I’m convinced this is where his eldest daughter gets it from - but he always had the most welcoming, comforting and genuine smile. We all knew many different sides of Don, and my favorite was how easy he was to talk to and confide in. He was a son, a husband, a father and a friend, and those that he loved, he made sure he took care of. He loved his parents deeply and it was always so important to him that they were taken care of. He will be dearly missed.
Don was very much loved by many, and due to his nature, we don’t know much more than that. Don is survived by his ever-loving parents, John and Moya Gray; his childhood best friend and brother, Jim Gray; his beloved siblings, Rich Porambo and Melodie Tsosie. Don was fortunate to find true love in his life - not once, but twice. Through such love, Don had two daughters, one he so generously passed along the stubborn trait to; his beloved Master Sergeant Kristina Gray of the US Army who resides in Aztec, NM, and yours truly, Rachel Moreno with husband Carlos, grandchildren Lilian Lynette and Carlos Jeter, also residing in Aztec, NM.
Let’s not forget Chili, Don’s fur baby. Chili has gotten just as old and fat as his dad. Don would fix Chili bacon and eggs for breakfast, and he would leave Animal Planet on while Don was out doing Lord knows what. Don’t worry about Chili. He too will make it through this just like the rest of us.
Don is loved and will be forever missed. He will not be forgotten. If you would like to share a story you had with him (please don’t embarrass the man), the services are going to be on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at First Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. There will be a celebration to follow. The viewing will take place Tuesday, August 17, 2021 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Ertel Funeral Home.