Richard Zane Gray, age 84, passed away Tuesday morning, September 16, 2025, at his residence. Just hours later, his beloved wife of 59 years, Margaret Patricia "Patty" Hebler Gray, followed him in death. Richard always affectionately called her his "long-legged Mississippi stump jumper," and his family takes comfort in knowing their love was so strong that they left this world together.

Richard was born and raised in Harlingen, Texas, where his family roots and strong work ethic first took hold. From an early age, he understood the values of perseverance, family, and integrity—principles that shaped his entire life. He liked to joke that the saying, "You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the boy," had it wrong. At 11 years old, he decided cotton picking wasn't for him and found work at a local grocery store. Later, while working his way through college, he worked alongside his brother Don in area plants, grateful for both the experience and the time they shared.

After graduating from Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Richard entered the oil and gas industry, beginning a long and distinguished career in sales and management. His work took him across the country and even overseas to London, where he and Patty lived for several years and traveled throughout Europe and the Middle East. Richard was widely respected for his guiding principle in business: "The movement of goods and services begins and ends with the customer." This dedication brought him not only professional success but also lifelong friendships with colleagues and clients.

Outside of work, Richard loved life's simple joys. He could spend hours on the golf course talking business or just enjoying time with friends. He also loved storytelling and traveling and never met a stranger. His quick wit and humor left a mark on everyone who knew him.

Still, nothing meant more to him than family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved time together, long conversations, and family vacations. To his daughters, he was more than a parent—he was their steady support, the one they could always count on, and the voice of encouragement through every stage of life. To his grandchildren, he was a hero in the truest sense—someone who showed them by example what love, hard work, and kindness really look like. His family was his pride and joy, and they loved him just as deeply.

He was followed in death by his beloved wife, Patty, and is survived by their two daughters, Daphne Gray Sampite and Nancy Gray; five grandchildren, Michael Sampite, Ryan Sampite, Zane Dufour, Aidan Dufour, and Riley Dufour; three sisters, Elvie Ann Gray Madaffari, Hattie Gray Eldridge, and Reatha Gray Ricketson; and extended family who will hold his memory close in their hearts. Richard and Patty's life together was filled with love, laughter, and respect. They left this world only hours apart, a true reflection of how strong their bond was. Together, they built a family and a love that will live on. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation .