Donny Gray

Jefferson Ladon "Donny" Gray, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 13, 2026, at the age of 73. Born in Russellville, KY, on March 17, 1953, Donny lived a life rich in love, laughter, and adventure.

A proud graduate of Franklin-Simpson High School, class of 1971, Donny served his country honorably as a member of the Marines. Following his service, he embarked on a successful career as the owner of Broken Branch Tree Service, where he became known not only for his work ethic but also for his integrity and kindness.

Donny’s passions extended beyond his work. An avid UK fan, he was a cherished member of the 101 Club in Lexington. He was also a former softball player in Franklin and enjoyed playing billiards. Donny found immense joy in deer hunting, fishing, and, most importantly, spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he adored.

Donny is survived by his devoted spouse of 47 years, Judy Gray; his loving children, Brandi Kleeman (Tony) of Owensboro, KY, Kim Bendelow (Bryan) of Smyrna, TN, Jeff Carson of Bowling Green, KY, and Tara Gray of Owensboro, KY; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Gail Hinton, Debbie Plourde, JV Massey, Terry Massey, Norene Montgomery, Connie Massey, and Tyrone Scoggins, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jeff Gray, Jr., his mother, Lila Ruth (Fuqua) Scoggins, his infant brother, John Gray, his brother-in-law, Carl Hinton, and his beloved grandparents, Homer Thompson, who lovingly raised him, and Viola Thompson.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory in Franklin, KY, on Monday, November 16, 2026, from 10:00 AM CST until 2:00 PM CST. Funeral services will be held the same day, Monday, November 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM CST with interment to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, KY.

Pallbearers will include Austin Gray, Josh Carson, Ty Carson, Tyler Bendelow, Jacob Sosh, Logan McDonald, MiQuade Baggerly, and Russell Lyons.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Donny’s memory, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at stjude.org, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others, especially children.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. For more information, please visit their website at www.gilbertfhonline.com or their Facebook page, Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. You can also reach them by phone at 270-586-8844 or 270-586-4464.

Donny will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, service, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched throughout his remarkable life.