Ernest Freeman Gray

In Loving Memory of Ernest Freeman Gray, Sr., a dedicated patriot and highly decorated veteran of the United States Navy, passed away on April 3, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. A Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9) whose career spanned the defining conflicts of the 20th century, he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, leadership, and unwavering service.

Born in Danville, Virginia, on January 10, 1933 Dad was the eldest of seven children. Dad started working in the tobacco fields at 9 and spent much of his teen years working fields for his family or loaned out to others needing to bring in their crops. There was very little time for schooling but joining the Navy provided opportunities for travel and education.

Dad first entered the Navy in January 1951, serving through the Korean Conflict. When returning to civilian life, he met and fell instantly in love with what would become his wife of 64 years, Victoria (Vic). With a growing family Dad went back into service in 1959, where he continued to serve through the Vietnam war with distinction, until 1974. Over his twenty-year or so career, his assignments took him across the globe, with duty stations in Illinois, California, and Virginia, and deployments that spanned Japan, China, Korea, the Mediterranean Sea, and both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

A specialist in the demanding field of nuclear propulsion, Ernie reached the pinnacle of the Navy’s enlisted ranks. His technical brilliance was most notably recognized during his time aboard the USS Enterprise from 1969 to 1971. Serving as the Reactor Training Assistant and Propulsion Plant Watch Officer during combat operations, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for his meritorious service.

His superiors noted that his "exceptional skill, detailed knowledge, and positive attitude" were indispensable in returning the Enterprise to full operational status during critical nuclear refueling and reactor testing. The training programs he developed ensured the highest levels of safety and competence for the crew, reflecting his deep devotion to duty and the highest traditions of the Naval Service.

Beyond his technical achievements, Dad will be remembered for the leadership and integrity he modeled for his fellow sailors and his family. He was a man who truly "went around" the world yet never lost sight of the values of hard work and excellence.

Once retired from the Navy, Dad worked for the Westinghouse Hanford Company (WHC) as an advanced technical testing engineer at the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). His 20-year career saw many promotions at WHC retiring as manager Waste Tank Maintenance & Production management. He commented on how much he truly enjoyed working with many of the dedicated and talented crew at FFTF and missed them after his retirement in 1995.

He is survived by his brother, Larry (Sandra) of Cascade, Virginia, Vicky (DD) Hines of Chatham, Virginia, Ernest (Terry) Gray Jr. of Chubbuck, Idaho, Charles (Cindy) Gray of Benton City, Paula Gray, Mark Gray, Brian (Pam) Gray, Ross Gray, and Renee (Sean) McGaughy all of Kennewick, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. We will forever carry the pride of his love and service in our hearts.

He is proceeded in death by the love of his life, Victoria Adeline Gray, daughter in law, Tina Denise Gray, and stepson Joe C Beltram.

A service will be held for family and friends at Ernie's Kennewick residence on April 25, 5 pm.