James Edward Gray, Sr., 82, of Wheeling, West Virginia, peacefully passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Liza’s Place.
He was born on April 23, 1943, in Glen Dale, West Virginia, the son of the late Presley and Myrtle (Toland) Gray.
Jim was a man of many passions. He loved tinkering in his garage, enjoyed stock car racing—famously known as “Sweet Thing 49”—and cherished hunting, fishing, and camping. He worked for Valley Camp Coal Company, Blaw Knox Mill, and was always involved in auto body work and construction until his retirement. His hands were always busy with a project, and his heart always found a way to share his talents, stories, laughter, and warmth with family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Quentin Gray; sister-in-law, Louise Gray; brother-in-law, Charles Mozingo; and his beloved dog, Pippy.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Karen Weishaupt Gray; his children, Kimberly (Jim) Fletcher of St. Clairsville, Ohio; Jim (Dessie) Gray, Jr. of Moundsville, West Virginia; and Melissa (Mike) Napple of Wheeling, West Virginia; nine grandchildren: Morgan, Lauren, Olivia, Ethan, Jamie, Jessie, Peyton, Brianna, and Emily; five step-grandchildren: Chelsea, Abby, Hayden, Haley, and Landen; seven great-grandchildren: Jordyn, Callum, Liam, Hudson, Halen, Ryleigh, and Naleigh; and his sister, Grace Ann Mozingo.
Friends will be received for a memorial visitation on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Kepner Funeral Home, 166 Kruger Street, Wheeling, West Virginia (304-242-2311).
