Harry Ray Gray

Harry Ray Gray from Columbia, SC, age 69, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2026, after a valiant battle with cancer. Harry was the son of Harry Gregory (HG) Gray and Betty Jean Ray Gray and grandson of Harry Gray and Julia Joyner Gray, Mitchell Ray and Mary Lee Ghent Ray.

Harry was a 1974 graduate of Lower Richland High School and had a very successful career as an auto body repair and auto paint specialist. His career provided him with an opportunity to have an incredible number of friendships throughout many states. Harry took great pride in his work and always provided above and beyond the expectations of customers and clients.

Harry was predeceased by his parents, grandparents and his brother, Dwight D. Gray.

Harry is survived by his life partner of 34 years, Millie Badendick of Columbia, SC, his daughter, Tracy (Dennis) Wilkins of Valdese, NC, his bonus children, Petey Badendick and Krystal (Fran) Person of Tega Cay, SC. Harry also leaves his grandchildren, Cory and Kylie Wilkins and Bella, Zoe and Finny Person. Harry is also survived by his sister, Melanie (Arthur) Rease of Eastover, SC, sister-in-law, Diane Gray of Charlotte, NC and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Harry loved life and lived life to the fullest. He was an avid racecar fan or rather a racecar fanatic. He visited all the NASCAR tracks over the years. A self-professed Grill Master, he loved to cook for all that were ready to enjoy the best food hot off the grill. Harry loved to travel, enjoying many cruises and a favorite spot to visit being Laughlin, Nevada, enjoying the gorgeous views. Fishing was a hobby of which he wished he had made the time to do more of. Laughter was one of his gifts, the ability to laugh and make others laugh and laugh loud. His greatest love and joy came from his time with his family. He treasured every moment with each and every one of them.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 2 pm, at Richland Presbyterian Church, 631 Fork Church Road, Gadsden, SC. A visitation following the service will be held at Beulah Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 9487 Garners Ferry Road, Hopkins, SC from 3 pm to 4:30pm. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

A special thank you to Dr. Coker and the entire staff at South Carolina Oncology Associates. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the SCOA Cares Foundation at SCOAcares.org or SCOA Cares, 166 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia, SC 29210.