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Stephen Gray
1956 - 2025
BORN
1956
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
UPCOMING SERVICE
Visitation
Jan. 4, 2026
2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Evans Funeral Home
Stephen Gray Obituary
Nov 6, 1956 - Dec 28, 2025
Norwalk
Stephen E. Gray, 69, of Norwalk, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, December 28, 2025.
He was born November 6, 1956, in Bucyrus.
Known to most as 'Coach Gray', Steve devoted his life to helping the young men who came through his basketball program realize their potential. He believed in hard work, discipline, and character, and he had a rare ability to motivate and uplift those around him. His influence extended far beyond wins and losses; he shaped lives, built confidence, and taught lessons that endured long after you stepped off the court.
Above all, Steve was a loving husband, father, and Grampy. He was the rock of his family - present, supportive, and endlessly proud. His love was evident in countless ways, both spoken and unspoken, and his family was the greatest joy of his life.
To his countless friends, Steve was loyal, generous, and kind. He was someone others could depend on for guidance, laughter, and unwavering support. His warmth and authenticity left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Steve will be remembered not only for what he achieved on the court, but for who he was. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the values he embodied every day.
He is survived by his loving wife, Susan (Tellor) Gray; daughters, Elise (Matt) Kirkland, Kelsey (Ashley) Gray, and Kailyn (Chris) Kabat; grandchildren, Jameson, Eloise, Jude, Nyle; parents, Richard and Inez (Heydinger) Gray; siblings, Jim (Jennifer) Gray, Scott (Michele) Gray, Sandy (Mike) Shafer; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Robin Gray.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 2-7 p.m. Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Evans Funeral Home, 314 E. Main Street, Norwalk. Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 5, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 91 E. Main Street, Norwalk. Burial will follow at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Milan, with a luncheon at St. Anthony Catholic Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund is being established in his memory to continue supporting Norwalk student athletes for years to come. Donations can be made to Norwalk Athletic Boosters, care of Coach Gray Memorial Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Stephen Gray
Jan
4
Visitation
2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Evans Funeral Home
314 E. Main Street, Norwalk, OH 44857
Jan
5
Service
St. Anthony Catholic Church Hall
Milan, OH
Jan
5
Funeral Mass
10:30 a.m.
St. Paul Catholic Church
91 E. Main Street, Norwalk, OH 44857
Jan
5
Burial
St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery
Milan, OH
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Gray
6 Entries
Carol Kehres
Earlier today
So sad to hear of Steve´s passing. Our friendship goes back to our grade school days at Saint Bernards. Our deepest condolences to Sue and family. He will be missed by many.
J. Jay Guth
Yesterday
It doesn't seem possible. Steve's influence will continue for years to come. I feel fortunate to have known Steve. I'm a better person because of his friendship. Prayers to Sue and family.
Amy Porter
December 31, 2025
i am so sorry to hear of Steves death. He was such a great meantor for Justin. he had a way wuth the boys to get their best potential. sending healing prayers to the family. always have the memories
Roger Kalb
December 31, 2025
Exceptional person. Was my quarterback in high school for the better part of 2 years. Good memories.
Roger Kalb
How you can show support
Kathie Hardin
December 31, 2025
I have very fond memories of my friendship with Steve going back to our BW days. He was always fun and kind and a close friend. I only recently reconnected with Steve through a mutual BW friend, Mark Verdova. I am so grateful that Mark made that happen. My deepest condolences go to Sue and the girls who he loved so much. I can´t imagine the pain they are suffering and I hope for peace for the whole family. RIP Steve.
Kathie Hardin
December 31, 2025
I have very fond memories of my dear friend going back to our days at BW. He was funny and kind and a great friend. I only recently reconnected with him along with another BW friend, Mark Verdova and Im so grateful Mark made that happen. I can´t imagine the loss Sue and the girls are feeling. I pray for peace for the whole family.
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