Linton "Baby" Gray

Linton “Baby” Gray was born on September 11, 1950, in Lisbon, Louisiana, as the third of six children born to Callie (Reed) Gray and Clema Gray. Affectionately known to many as “Baby” Gray, he was a man defined by loyalty, dedication, generosity, resourcefulness, and a deep love for history.

Linton graduated from Hamilton Park High School in Dallas, Texas, in 1969, where he excelled in athletics and proudly served as the football team's quarterback. After high school, he attended Prairie View A&M University. While there, he pledged the Delta Theta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., crossing in the spring of 1972 with his line, “Second to None.”

Family was at the heart of Linton’s life. He welcomed his oldest daughter, Nakia Denee, with Sheree Simpson, and later embraced a fatherly role in Brandi Jacquá Simpson's life. In 1974, he married Brenda Sherman; they welcomed his only son, Steven Demond, in the summer of 1978. In 1988, he welcomed another daughter, Alexandria Linette, with his longtime companion, Barbara Barnes.

A true jack-of-many-trades, Linton had a strong work ethic and a wide range of skills. Throughout his life, he worked for Southern Pacific Railroad, Stanley Tools, a wastewater treatment facility, Love Field Airport, and Richardson ISD, where he served as both a Bus Monitor and Athletic Event Staffer. He also operated his own lawn care business and was known for his side work, including repairing cars and creating his well-known Dallas Cowboys boards.

Linton was deeply committed to his community. He was civically engaged, participating in election-poll voting and serving as the Election County Judge. He was a proud member of the Hamilton Park Civic League and remained active at the Willie B. Johnson Senior Center, where he built lasting relationships and continued serving others.

In his personal time, Linton enjoyed fishing, sports, and grilling, often bringing people together through food and fellowship. He had a passion for community service and was especially known for sharing knowledge—offering “history lessons” and stories that left lasting impressions on those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clema and Callie Gray; his brother, Clinton Gray; along with his grandparents and many aunts and uncles.

Those left to cherish lasting memories include his children, Nakia Patton, Brandi J. Simpson, Steven Gray, and Alexandria Mann (Curtis); his siblings, Donnie Joe Gray (Patricia), Tina Gray-Tatum (Clayton), Rickey Gray (Deborah), and Richard Gray; his ex-wife, Brenda Sherman Key; and his longtime companion, Barbara Barnes. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brandon Williams, Justin Sims, Aron Sims, Dragan Wylie, Sterling Gray, Addison Mann, and Cal Mann; his bonus grandchildren, Tiara Mann and Jalen Mann; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Linton “Baby” Gray’s legacy is one of strength, service, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family and community. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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