Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

January 26, 1946 July 22, 2022

Leamon Gray was born on January 26, 1946, to the late John and Naomi Brown-Gray in Monroe, LA. Leamon's basketball career began at Carver Elementary School in Monroe LA under Coach James Hughey with TCAA (Twin City Athletic Association). At Carroll High School, Leamon was a beast on the basketball court. Many Carroll legends claim Leamon as one of Carroll's top five players ever. Leamon was a first team two time Louisiana All-State Basketball Player . During the Christmas holidays in the 1960's Carroll and Richwood always played while Leamon and Richwood's Joe Walker were fierce competitors. Leamon could shoot a basketball like people breathed with ease. Many remember him on the court where he would fill basketball goals with twenty to thirty points with effortlessness. One night Leamon played a basketball game with a broken arm in a cast and scored 24 points while remembered by those still living in attendance witnessing, Leamon's remarkable feats. Some of Leamon's former team mates included Bruce Taylor, James "Shack" Harris, Theodis Lee, Richard Shaw and Thomas "Boo Cat" Hudson. He was a true Carroll great who went on to Grambling showcasing his remarkable ability. He encouraged his family and friends to be the best as an inspiration to many. Leamon was a God-fearing man who witnessed to many and always had an inspiring word for those in need. He served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher at the Olivet Missionary Baptist Church in Stockton, California until he was called to his heavenly home on July 22, 2022. He also used humor and his infamous smirk to brighten anyone's day. Leamon never met a stranger; he would stop to have conversation with anyone who looked his way. A hearty laugh was always guaranteed! Leamon was proceeded in death by his parents, eldest brother (Julian Gray, Sr.), and sister (Barbara Gray-Turner). He will be greatly missed by his devoted wife, Stephan Senegal-Gray. His resilient sons: Leamon-John Gray, and Aaron Bynum. His affectionate daughters: Avanetta Harris (Mark), Keva McDaniels (Robert), Crystal Gray, Briena Gray, and Monique Choyce. His loving siblings: Janie Williams (Carl), Raynetta Traywick (Joseph), Michael Gray, Beverly Washington (Larry), and Tammy Gray. A beloved aunt, Mary Covington. A dear sister-in-law, Geneva Gray. Grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends nationwide will forever cherish his memory. Homegoing celebration will be held on August 5, 2022 at the Olivet Missionary Baptist Church in Stockton, California at 11:00 a.m. Services are entrusted to Cano Funeral Home of Stockton, CA.

Photo Leamon Gray