IL HR1333

Ronald E. "Ron" Gray of Jacksonville passed away on June 7, 2016; he was born December 27, 1936 in Salina, Kansas.

Managed WJIL radio station in Jacksonville for nearly 50 years and was active in numerous community organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, American Business Club, and Jacksonville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Received multiple honors including Jaycees Boss of the Year, American Business Club National Project Manager of the Year, Illinois College Distinguished Service Award, Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow, and Chamber Circle of Excellence Award.

Led community initiatives including the Grierson Society and General Grierson Civil War Days tourism event, Save the Wheel ferris wheel project, Woodlawn Farm Underground Railroad site establishment, and restoration of Historic Bandstands.

Survived by wife Mary Riley Gray, son Stuart Gray, daughter Sherri Gray Bergschneider, stepchildren, six grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; the Illinois House of Representatives extends condolences to his family and friends.