Douglas Temple “Trip” Gray III passed away suddenly on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022 in Richmond, where he lived the better part of his life.
He was born in Arlington on Aug. 15, 1970.
He died peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.
Trip was a 1993 graduate of Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas, where he majored in Criminal Justice and minored in Business.
A disc jockey at his college radio station, Trip loved music, especially classic rock and bluesy jazz. This love evolved in Trip to create a movie and music connoisseur crossing multiple venues. Friends and family loved receiving Trip’s recommendations on what to watch or listen to.
Returning to his hometown after college, Trip managed the popular Shackleford’s Restaurant for many years. He flourished in a second career as an associate at Franco’s Fine Clothier.
Trip loved fishing on the Chesapeake Bay and enjoyed hunting. He followed college football and basketball with a fan’s devotion. His favorite college football team was Alabama University (Go Crimson Tide) born from his lifelong admiration of Coach Bear Bryant.
Trip was always ready to lend a helping hand, whether to family, friends or a complete stranger, as was often the case in his role as a volunteer firefighter.
In quiet moments Trip would usually be seen reading. He devoured books and was dedicated to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. He was quick-witted and able to weave humor out of the air, much as his father could. Trip was a kind-hearted man who leaves behind many friends.
Above all, Trip loved his wife of almost 19 years, Sheila, whom he adored like no other and was holding his hand as he passed. With Sheila he found the love of his life.
Trip was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Temple Gray II; and his grandparents, Margaret W. and Julian H. Krowe.
Trip is survived by his wife, Sheila Gray; mother, Velma K. Gray; brother, John W. Gray and wife Heather; nephew, Jacob W. Gray; niece, Ava M. Gray; uncle, Allen J. Krowe; brother-in-law, Stephen B. Evans and his children; and brother-in-law, David R. Evans. Trip is also survived by numerous cousins, so many of which he sometimes joked a flowchart was necessary.
A celebration of life service is planned for 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 28 at Christ Church Episcopal Parish, with interment to follow. A reception in the parish hall will take place after the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Church Parish Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 476, Saluda, VA 23149.
