In Memory of R. Jean Gray

 

On behalf of NPH USA, it is with deep sadness that the NPH family mourns the loss of a great NPH pioneer on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 ~ R. Jean Gray.

In 1980, Jean served as an FBI agent at the US Embassy in Mexico. Jean quickly became involved with NPH only to remain a lifelong friend and supporter. As a servant leader to NPH, Jean shared his time and energy volunteering on several NPH Boards throughout his life and remained an honorary member of the NPH International General Assembly. His commitment to NPH only expanded during his retirement years. Jean accepted a personal request from Fr. Wasson to guide the newly formed Father Wasson Legacy Endowment Inc. This newly formed endowment become a solid financial enhancement to support NPH.

For 40+ years, Jean gave us many good times serving as an emcee for the Pequeño Tours and Fiesta shows, wearing his big sombrero, introducing the Pequeños in English and Spanish.

Of all the work involvements Jean Gray had in his life, we are convinced that his dearest project was to serve the children of NPH. His virtues speak far and wide. Jean always shared his passion about NPH with his friends and family. He demonstrated his faith-based decisions on what was best for the call at hand. He was a good, holy, and generous man.

In 2016, Jean humbly accepted the Rose Schaffhausen Award which further highlighted his genuine love for the NPH Family and the mission of Fr. William Wasson.



Jean has been an extraordinary positive role model always leading with dignity and embracing the NPH mission. He shared with everyone his love for the children of NPH was a natural extension of God’s love.

Services:
Friday, January 21, 2022
St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish
680 Mill Street
Excelsior, MN 55331

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Visitation
12:00 p.m. Mass
Lunch

View via live stream at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-IGLe7s6uc 

Memorials to honor Jean’s life and his amazing passion to support Fr. Wasson’s kids can be sent to NPH USA. Please send your contribution to NPH USA, 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 4000, Chicago, IL 60606-3193, or made securely below.

NPH MexicoNuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) means “Our Little Brothers and Sisters” in Spanish. NPH USA transforms the lives of vulnerable children in Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Peru. Together, we help children overcome poverty and become productive, caring leaders in their own communities. Founded in 1954 by Father William Wasson, NPH is supporting nearly 8,000 children, both inside and outside our homes, ensuring they have a safe and nurturing place to live, an education, clothing, healthcare, and a strong family support system.

Donations to NPH USA, Federal Tax ID # 65-1229309, are tax-deductible as provided by law and help provide nutritious food, clothing, loving homes, health care and quality education to thousands of children in Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Peru. To read our Charitable Solicitation Disclosure Statements, visit nphusa.org/disclosure