Edward Gillespie Gray, Iii "Gill"

On Thursday, January 12, 2023, Edward Gillespie (Gill) Gray, III, age 73, of North East, MD passed away at home.

Gill was born January 20, 1950 in Aberdeen, MD. He was the son of Edward G. Gray, Jr. and Nellie Mercer Gray.

He is survived by his son, Edward G. (Sonny) Gray, IV, his daughters Melanie (Marshall) Alexander and Tomey Lynn (Dave) Payne, along with his grandchildren, Amber, John, Darrin, Shai-Anne, Daniel and August; his brother Brian W. Gray, and his sisters Sandra Faye Price, Resa Beth Laird, Nancy Mercer Hadad and Connie Lynn Orser.

In addition to his parents, Gill was preceded in death by his brother: Phillip Owen Gray.

Gill had many creative interests one of which was waterfowl carving, a talent he excelled in. His work was displayed in many places, museums and calendars. He often shared his knowledge and skills with others if they had an interest. He carved primitive styled Santa’s and other characters and often gave them away. He made walking canes with specially designed handles, knives with deer antler carved handles and sheaths made of leather.

Another great love was music and guitars, a love shared with his grandson, August Payne. He fondly remembered when he was young playing guitar, with Wayne playing the piano and Phillip playing the saxophone in the church.

Gill liked to hunt for pheasant, quail and deer and was quite a sharpshooter. His first hunt was with his father when he was just three years old.

Gill loved trading and bartering, getting deals, the real “Wheeler and Dealer”. He’s been known to point to something and say “I got this for 5 ducks!” This tickled him. He would go to Crumpton’s and put a duck or two up for auction and look for deals.

He taught his younger relatives about fishing and crabbing, and black powder rifles. He had quite a gun collection and an avid interest in Civil War memorabilia, searching for arrowheads and Indian relics.

Last but not least, was his little Jack Russell Terrier, “Belle” who gave him lots of happy days with her pep and antics. They were a team.

Gill had a kind heart, loved people and was a genuine giver. He will be missed by us all.

Funeral services will be held, Friday, January 20, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Crouch Funeral Home, P.A., 127 South Main Street, North East, MD 21901 with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm.