James "Jimmy" Gray

James “Jimmy” Gray, born February 12, 1932, departed this world peacefully on August 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion that will long be remembered by all whose lives he touched.

To know Jimmy was to know a man of unwavering kindness and steady resolve. Across nearly a century, he embodied the values of family, honesty, and compassion, enriching the lives of everyone lucky enough to call him father, grandfather, friend, or neighbor. The memories that live on tell a story of resilience—of a man who weathered life’s hardships with grit, and who celebrated its joys with open-hearted laughter.

Jimmy’s memory will be cherished most deeply by his son, Tom Gray, and his daughter, Nancy Bucknall. His legacy carries forward through his beloved grandchildren: Samantha Gray (Hank Simpson), Susan Poemaybo (Brandon), Natalie Gray, Nathan Gray, Melissakate Gray and many great-grandchildren. In their memories, stories, and shared laughter, the spirit of their grandfather will continue to shine. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Dolly, and his cat, John Henry.

While the ache of loss is profound, comfort is found in knowing that Jimmy is reunited with those he loved dearly and missed so much. He is preceded in death by his devoted wife Frances Gray, whose partnership was the heart of his world. The circle of love extends to those gone before: his sisters, Mary Jane Golden and Imogene Gray, and his children, James Daniel Gray, Michael Steven Gray, and Sarah Gray. Their influence on Jimmy’s life only deepened his capacity for love, for patience, and for joy.

Jimmy’s journey was a testament to the enduring ties of family. His service in the Navy and in the Korean War will forever be honored by those who knew and loved him, as well as those he served with. Jimmy loved watching Westerns and sharing his love for all things western and cowboys with those he loved. He found purpose in fatherhood, pride in being a grandfather, and solace in the daily rhythms of life surrounded by those he treasured. Each holiday gathering, quiet conversation, and gentle smile now forms a tapestry of memories for his family to hold close.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Jimmy are invited to gather for visitation on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home – Hot Springs, 2205 Airport Road, Hot Springs, Arkansas. A funeral service in loving remembrance of Jimmy’s life, including full military honors, will take place the following morning, Friday, August 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., also at Smith Family Funeral Home – Hot Springs.

Pallbearers include Mike Withers, Jason Watkins, Nathan Gray, Natalie Gray, Brandon Poemaybo, and Hank Simpson.

Honorary Pallbearer is Archie Gray, Jimmy's brother.

As his family bids farewell, they are comforted by the knowledge that Jimmy’s legacy endures—not just in genealogies, but in enduring bonds of love, tenderness, and gratitude. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered always.