Harold Allen Gray, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on October 18, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas, at the age of 82. Born on November 12, 1943, in Elk City, Oklahoma, Allen lived a life marked by strength, loyalty, humor, and a heart as big as the man himself.

He was the son of Harold Ancil Gray and Leona Belle Simpson Gray. He graduated from Dumas High School in 1962 and went on to serve his country in the United States Army, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged and remained a proud Disabled American Veteran.

On April 21, 1971, Allen married the love of his life, Dixie Lou Griffith, in Denver, Colorado. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories. Dixie preceded him in death on January 3, 2016, and her memory remained a treasured part of his life.

Allen retired from Valero McKee Refinery in 2006 after years of dedicated service. Known among his coworkers as “The Bear,” a nickname earned through his remarkable physical strength, Allen was a gentle giant whose presence was as memorable as his name. Beneath his strong exterior was a warm heart and a wonderful sense of humor. He had a witty and mischievous spirit that could bring a smile to those around him, and his loved ones will forever remember the laughter and joy he brought into their lives.

Above all, Allen loved his family. He deeply loved his daughters, Brenda and Debra, his sons-in-law, Darin and John, and his grandchildren, Jacob and Emma. His grandchildren lovingly knew him as “Oso,” a special name that reflected the affection and closeness they shared with their beloved grandfather. He took great pride in his family, and the love he gave them will continue to live on through the memories they hold dear.

Allen was also a lifelong animal lover, especially devoted to dogs and horses. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he found happiness in the outdoors and in the companionship of his four-legged friends, many of whom knew him as “Oso”, too. He was truly “dogs' best friend.”

A faithful member of the Olsen Park Church of Christ, Allen's life was grounded in his love for God and the people who mattered most to him. His faith, his devotion to family, and his steadfast nature were important parts of the man he was. His life was marked by a dedication to being a humble servant of God.

Allen leaves behind a loving family who will carry his memory in their hearts: his daughters, Brenda Lou Martinez and her husband, Darin, and Debra Jayne Epperson and her husband, John; his grandchildren, Jacob Cullen Martinez and Emma Lou Martinez; his sister, Linda Emerson, and her husband, Darrell; his brother-in-law, Vance Griffith, and his wife, Monica; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dixie Lou Griffith Gray, and his parents, Harold Ancil Gray and Leona Belle Simpson Gray.

Allen will be remembered as a strong man with a tender heart, a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a proud veteran, and a loyal friend. His humor, his gentle nature, and his unmistakable presence made him someone who was impossible to forget. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he shared and the memories he created will remain a lasting comfort to all who knew him.

Allen's life was a testament to the power of love, loyalty, and a generous heart. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy will live on in the family he cherished, the friends he treasured, and the countless memories that will forever bring smiles to the faces of those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to one of the following organizations in Allen's honor:

• Amarillo SPCA
• Disabled American Veterans
• NRA Whittington Center