Donald (Gene) Gray

Donald Eugene Gray

Donald "Gene" Gray passed away on October 10, 2023, at the age of 100. He was born in Fallon, NV on November 13, 1922, to Elsie Gray (nee Miller) and Walter Scott Gray. Gene was predeceased by his parents, beloved wife, Betty, and eldest son, Thomas E. Gray. Gene is survived by his son, Donald W. Gray (Susan), daughter, Jane L. Gray (Byron Treaster), daughter-in-law, Penny Ports, and niece, Carolyn Ogle. Gene was extremely proud of his four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

In 1944 Gene received a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of New Mexico. He was a licensed professional engineer employed by the US Reclamation Bureau and by the Soil Conservation Service before joining the State Engineer's office in Santa Fe. He served as chief of the NM Water Rights Division from 1967 until his retirement in1983. Gene was the co-owner of Gray's Flower Shop and Nursery in Albuquerque. Gene was a person of deep and abiding faith. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Santa Fe and was a long-serving deacon. He and Betty enjoyed their many travels, including trips to Africa and the Middle East. His family extends their gratitude to his caretakers, Nellie, Joan, Nina and Stephanie, who gave him kind and attentive assistance for over three years. Thanks also go to the staff at Presbyterian Hospital in Santa Fe. The funeral will be held at the First Baptist Church of Santa Fe on Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 11 AM with Sr. Pastor Reed Redus officiating. The Church is located at 1605 Old Pecos Trail. A private burial service at Sunset Memorial Park in Albuquerque will follow the funeral.