Vance Lee Gray

Vance Lee Gray, 64, of Millstadt, Illinois passed away on Wednesday April 14, 2021 at his home. Funeral Services will be private. Vance was born in Kansas City, Missouri on December 31, 1956. He was the son of Maurice Lee and Della Mae Gray, nee Salyer. He was married to Debbie Ann Gray, nee Kolb on September 19, 1981.

Following his 35-year career at MasterCard, Vance enjoyed each and every day of his retirement that began in 2017. Spending his days with those he loved most, Vance was known as an avid protector of purple martins and spirited advocate of all sizes and types of beer. Vance was excited to pass his winters watching sports with family, both immediate and extended, but was also known to enjoy a nap to the tranquil sounds of a golf match. During summer, Vance had a passion for boating and bbq at the Lake of the Ozarks, where he shared a home with his immediate family and three granddaughters. “Dad we miss you so very much. We will remember you forever and always. We love you.”

Vance is survived by his wife, Debbie Ann Gray of Millstadt, Illinois, two daughters; Kari Della O’Brien and husband Sean, Amanda Lynn Gray, his son; Jacob Lee Gray and fiancé, Valencia; three granddaughters; Tinsley and Breena O’Brien and Genevieve Gray, and granddog, Mae-Pie, all of Columbia, Illinois. His extended family, brother Darren D. Gray and stepmother, Margie Ross Gray of Grandview, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Hoffen Funeral Home in Millstadt, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.