Harold Gray Obituary

Harold (Hal) J. Gray, Jr., 77, of Burnt Hills, NY passed away peacefully on November 6, 2024, at his home.
Born September 7, 1947, he was the son of the late Edna Mae (Claus) Gray and Harold J. Gray, Sr.. Hal graduated from the former Linton High School in 1966 and was an outstanding athlete and Former Class "A" Football All Star.
Hal went on to graduate from the U.S. Army Aviation Flight School as a Helicopter Pilot and obtained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer and was an Instructor Pilot. He served two tours in Vietnam and was a highly decorated Veteran, receiving the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat after being shot down in 1968 and a Bronze Star for Heroism.
He was also awarded other Medals and Decorations for Valor to include 3 (three) Distinguished Flying Crosses, 2 (two) Air Medals with "V" for valor, 2 Army Commendation Medals, 36 Air Medals, and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross with 3 Gold & 2 Silver Cross Devices.
Hal was also a Lifetime Member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and he served as the New York State Department Adjutant and Senior Vice President of the Schenectady Chapter #394. He was also a member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association.
Hal retired from the Schenectady School System with nearly 40 years of service., and then went on to work as a Veterans Service Officer for Schenectady County, a position he enjoyed immensely, helping Veterans and their Dependents to obtain well-deserved VA benefits. Hal spent the majority of his retirement traveling the world with his loving and devoted wife Deborah and he enjoyed their vacation homes in Florida and Aruba. He loved spending time with his three cherished grandchildren, Ashton, Morgan and Grayson and he devoted much of his spare time assisting disabled veterans.
Predeceased by his brother Charles (Chuck) Gray. Survivors include the love of his life and soul mate, wife Deborah (Rakoske) Gray, whom he married on October 18, 2001. He is also survived by his devoted stepsons, Jordan (Tara) Rakoske, (Charlton) and Ryan Rakoske (Glenville). Loving grandchildren, Ashton, Morgan, and Grayson Rakoske, grand dog Millie, brother, Gary (Gayle) Gray, sister-in-law Sally Gray, Hal's good friends John and Kathy LaPointe, and several nieces and nephews also survive.
There will be no viewing hours, burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia with full Military Honors, those wishing to attend should contact the funeral home for details. A private celebration of Hal's life will be held for family and friends at a later date.
Family requests donations be made to Stratton VAMC, 113 Holland Ave Albany, NY 12208, to benefit all our military veterans. Online condolences www.glenvillefuneralhome.com
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