Billy F. Gray, 88, of rural Albion died at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 28, 2016, at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City, where he was admitted Wednesday.

He was born June 17, 1928, in Huntington, a son of the late Albert Francis and Myrtle Ethel (Harwood) Gray. He completed his education at Crawfordsville.

On December 13, 1947, he was united in marriage to Meredith M. Zachary. They made their home in Crawfordsville, Huntington, Big Lake, northern Whitley County, Baugher Lake and Little Barbee before moving to their present home in Noble County 20 years ago. Mrs. Gray died August 20, 2014.

As a bricklayer, he worked for several construction companies but primarily for Crown Construction. After retiring from bricklaying, he worked for Huntington Hospital as a custodian and he finished his work career at Redman Homes, Topeka.

He served in the Indiana National Guard and was a member of American Legion Post 98, Columbia City, and VFW Post 4717, Wolf Lake.

An avid fisherman, he enjoyed his time on the water and tied his own fish lure flies. He liked woodworking and was a good pool player.

He is survived by his two sons: Billy F. (Connie) Gray, Jr. and Gary D. (Rose) Gray, both of Albion; 7 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers: Norman, Eddie and Donald Gray and a sister: Winifred Bowers.

Keeping with Billy’s request, there will be no service. He will be interred next to his wife at the Thorn Cemetery, Ormas.

Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.