Mr. David Phelps Gray's Obituary
David Phelps Gray, known affectionately as "Poppa", passed away peacefully, Monday September 23 surrounded by his loving family, at his home in Walkersville, Maryland. He was 85. Dave served as a Frederick County Commissioner for 20 years, between 1990-2002 and again from 2006-2014. During his tenure he served as both President and Vice President.
Among Dave's proudest accomplishments were initiating Frederick County's recycling program and advancing the cause of Agricultural Preservation.
Dave was born in Canton, Ohio in 1939. He attended the University of Delaware, graduating in 1963 with a B.S. in electrical engineering. He, and his wife Sharon, provided tax consulting services through their home business, Gray Enterprises, for more than 40 years.
Dave served on numerous boards and commissions in Frederick County, including the Planning and Zoning Commission (1979-90), Board of Health, National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board, Board of Education, Substance Abuse Council, Board of Trustees, Frederick Community College, Maryland Council for New Americans, Board of Elections, and Board of Library Trustees. He was a member of the Legislative Committee for the Maryland Association of Counties.
Dave is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sharon Gray of Walkersville, sisters Susan Rose and Linda Wiegand of Florida, daughters Lisa Dietrich, Jill Milenski (Aaron), Lynde Jo Engel (Charles), Jan Gilpin (Rob), Michelle Frock (David), Jo Gray (Jenny McBride), and Deana Dietrich (Billy Crook).
Nichole Smith-Szarenski (Tony) became the 8th girl of "Poppa" Gray's world and the start of 20 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren both biological and of the heart. Most of them all are now boys. David is also survived by many nephews and nieces.
Dave had an enduring curiosity, and love of life, nature, travel, especially National Parks, and astronomy. He was known for his kind and helpful nature, fairmindedness, and quirky sense of humor. He never met a sweet he didn't enjoy or a cup of coffee he couldn't spill.
In keeping with his life-long philosophy, with his constant interests and hope for a better future, Dave donated his body to scientific research through the Maryland State Anatomy Board.
A service will be held on Saturday October 12, 2024 from 10:00-10:30am followed by an open time from 10:30am - 1:00pm for friends and family to "recycle" your memories. Services will take place at the Chapel at Resthaven Funeral Home located in Frederick.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Walkersville Volunteer Rescue Co. P.O. Box 202 Walkersville, MD 21793 or Frederick Health Hospice 1 Frederick Health Way, Frederick, MD 21701.
The family extends a thank you to all of those who provided care for him, with a special thank you to Dr. Haseebuddin from Family Urology Associates, and Ari and April from Frederick Health Hospice.
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