GRAY, Zane 89, of Sun City Center, passed away Oct. 19, 2015. Gray was born in Larimore, ND and was a long time resident of Grand Forks, ND. He was a proud Fighting Sioux alumnus of the University of North Dakota. Gray attended Juilliard School of Music in New York City and had the opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall. He served in the United States Army during World War II and was stationed in the Philippines. He dedicated his career to education and led band and vocal programs in McIntosh, Biwabik, and Cloquet, MN, retiring after more than 25 years of teaching. As a student favorite, Gray influenced many lives and enjoyed directing concert, jazz, marching, and pep bands. He encouraged students, regardless of their ability, to participate in the various music programs available to them. Prior to coming to Sun City Center, Gray was a Choir Director in Haines City, and most recently, a member of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center where he participated with his many friends of Sun City Center and briefly served as the interim director of the choir. He was a much sought after vocalist, performing for many weddings and funerals, known especially for his rendition of "The Lord's Prayer". Gray was an avid card player and attained the rank of duplicate bridge Life Master. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joanne, who shared his love for music, friends, and family.

Survivors include his partner and companion, Marie Hays; his six sons, Kevin Z. Gray, Mark E. (Florence) Gray, Collin M. (Erin) Gray, Barton W. Gray, Jeffrey C. (Marci) Gray, Corey S. (Kathy) Gray; 15 grandchildren, Kierney Z., and Addison H. Gray, Sarah and Tyler Gray, Cameron, Connor, and Lauren Gray, Hona, Maddie, and Cooper Gray, Patrick (Danielle) Duffy, Steven Duffy, and Austin Z. Gray, Evan and Ryan Gray; three great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Lois Gray, Gundy Gray, and Barbara Klick and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be 10 am Friday, Oct. 23, at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W., Sun City Center. Interment with Military Honors will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Bloomington, MN. Arrangements by Sun City Center Funeral Home.
Published in the Tampa Bay Times on Oct. 21, 2015