Dr. McDonald Gray Jr.

Dr. McDonald Gray, Jr., age 79 of Parrottsville, passed away Sunday, December 24, 2023. He was a General Surgeon for 28 years in Newport, TN and was a Emergency Room Doctor for 13 years in various places and states. Dr. McDonald Gray Jr.'s career in Newport began with the establishment of Newport Surgical Inc. in 1987. His career is marked by an impressive legacy of service and dedication to his patients, our local hospital and the community. Dr. Gray's significant contributions to the Newport hospital and the broader medical landscape are evident through his extensive involvement in various committees. He served as the Medical Director of Surgery and the Critical Care Unit. He played a pivotal role in the development of protocols, policies, and procedures for patient care as the hospital built its first CCU in 1993. His dedication extended to acting as the Assistant Medical Examiner for Cocke County and assuming the role of Medical Examiner when needed. His participation on committees such as Surgical, Medical Executive, and Special Care reflects his multifaceted commitment to enhancing healthcare services. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Gray's impact is profoundly felt through the relationships he fostered. Dr. Gray was highly regarded by fellow Physicians, hospital employees, and patients alike. To fellow Physicians he was the ideal "small town" surgeon due to his excellent skills in many areas of surgery and medicine in general. He earned respect and affection for his laid -back and straightforward nature. Despite his significant role in the medical community, Dr. Gray maintained a humble demean or, always approachable to those in need. A particularly commendable aspect of Dr. Gray's dedication was his unyielding commitment to patient care. Sleeping nearby in the CCU department during complex surgical cases and being on call almost 24/7 exemplifies his unwavering devotion to ensuring the community had consistent surgical coverage. This level of commitment undoubtedly played a crucial role in providing quality healthcare for the surrounding community. His Newport Surgical office closed in 2008. He continued his medical career after normal retirement age working in ER medicine in Sneedville TN. He continued to live here in Cocke County. To the ER patients he brought a higher level of ER care with his level of expertise. Dr. Gray's passion for knowledge-sharing further enriched his legacy. Known for explaining medical concepts in accessible ways, he eagerly passed on his expertise to fellow Physicians, Nurses and anyone seeking to understand. This commitment to education reflects not only his proficiency as a medical professional but also his desire to empower others with knowledge. The lasting impact of Dr. Gray's career extends beyond the medical realm to encompass the close bonds he formed with his practice staff. Even after the closure of Newport Surgical Inc., he remained connected with his team, solidifying his status as a cherished figure and becoming more like family. This enduring relationship is a testament to the positive and lasting influence Dr. McDonald Gray Jr. had on both his professional colleagues and the wider community. He was preceded in death by his parents Jean and McDonald Gray. He is survived by his loving wife Jenean Gray; sons Nicholas (Katie) Gray and Richard Sullivan Gray; daughters Katherine Maxwell Gray (Jason Vaughn), Mary McGurie (Jessie) Simmons, and Misty Dorsey; grandchildren Lucindalee Gray, Elanor Simmons, and Jacqueline Simmons; sister Jean (John) Carroll; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Cecil and Pam Prater; and nieces and nephews Tessa Isley, Lewis (Aileen) Carroll, Stephen (Jennifer) Carroll, and Elizabeth Ovleman. The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2023 at First Baptist Church. Funeral Services will follow on Friday at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church with Dr. Rich Lloyd officiating. Entombment will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 30, 2023 in the Union Cemetery Mausoleum. Pallbearers will be Richard Gray, Dr. Conway, Dr. Kickliter, Dr. Blombach, Dr. Adams, and Jerry Ford. In lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made to the Animal Shelter or a charity of your choice. Family and friends may sign the guest register online at www.manesfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Manes Funeral Home.

Dr. McDonald Gray Jr.

June 1, 1944 - December 24, 2023