Racine– Mitchell Gray, 53, passed away peacefully at his home and was born into Eternal Life on Sunday morning, January 16, 2011 following a courageous one-year battle with cancer.

Mitchell was born in Enterprise, MS on March 5, 1957 to R.J. and Wilhelmina (nee: Earl) Gray. He lived most of his life in Racine where he received his education from Washington Park High School and Gateway Technical College.

On August 30, 2008, he was united in marriage with Angela Renita (nee: Price, Adams) Gray. Mitch was employed by Chrysler Corp. for many years and was planning to retire this coming September. With his close relationship with God and profound Christian faith, Mitchell was a member of Searching Together Missionary Baptist Church. He loved giving to others, especially by encouraging and supporting youth of our community (especially while working at the Dr. Martin Lutheran King, Jr. Center) – whether they were misguided or underprivileged, and then watching them proceed on the right path in life. He would always strive to inspire others and lift their spirits, even during his own bout with cancer. He took great pride in his appearance and loved to look dapper in his finest apparel.  Above all, Mitch's prime passion in life was for his daughter, Janchell, of whom he was most proud.

Surviving are his loving wife, Angela of Racine; beloved daughter, Janchell (Joshua) Swanson of Dallas, TX; dear mother, Wilhelmina Gray of Racine; sisters, Ella Louise (Mark) Buchman, Stella Wilson, Ouida Gray, Sylvia Woods, Betty (Derrick) Carter and Carrie Gray; brother, Timothy Gray; mother-in-law, Katherine Price; brother-in-law, Fernard Price; sister-in-law, Regina (Daryl) Hall; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other dear relatives, co-workers and friends – too numerous to mention by name.

Mitchell was preceded in death by his father, R.J. Gray; sister, Maxine Gray; uncle, Morris Earl; cousin, Cortez Earl; brother-in-law, Brian Wilson; and father-in-law, Hugh Price.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held at Searching Together Missionary Baptist Church, 825 – 21 ^st Street, on Monday, January 24, 2011 at 11:30 am with Rev. Willie Riley officiating. Interment will follow in Graceland Cemetery. Viewing will be in the church on Monday from 10-11:30 am. In memory of Mitchell, offer an act of kindness to someone in need – allowing his legacy to live on through us.