Bruce J. Gray

Bruce J. Gray, 77, passed away peacefully July 14, 2026. He was born January 4, 1949 in Amsterdam, the son of Leon and Nellie Gray.

Bruce was a graduate of Wilbur H. Lynch High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served as a Sea Bee from 1968 - 1974. On September 19, 1970 Bruce married the love of his life Clara D. Tylutki. Together they shared 53 beautiful years before her passing in 2023.

A true fixture of the local community, Bruce gave his time and passion to several organizations over the decades. He was an honorable veteran and a proud member of VFW Post 701. An avid outdoorsman who was always happiest with a fishing rod or hunting gear in hand, Bruce was a dedicated, 50-plus-year member and past president of the Mohawk Valley Coon and Cat Club. His love for speed and tradition ran just as deep. A longtime enthusiast and fixture in local stock car racing, Bruce was a proud member of the Mohawk Valley Vintage Dirt Modified Stock Car Club, where he spent many years involved with the races and piloting his signature #32 Special.

Above all his hobbies and achievements, Bruce’s greatest joy was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and especially with his grandkids. His incredible sense of humor was a trademark throughout his life and will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Bruce is survived by his daughter Melissa (Robert) Perry, son Brian (Diane) Gray, brothers Skip, Jerry (Kathy), Charlie (Debbie) and Dale, sister Ellen Orlup, grandchildren Matthew, Macie and Summer Perry, Bryan and Lulu Gray. He is also survived by his daughter in law Mandy Gray, several sister and brother in laws, nieces, and nephews, and his faithful side kick Jackson.

He was predeceased by wife Clara, parents Leon and Nellie Gray, sister Judy Pasek, brother-in-law Alfred Orlup and sister-in-law Kelly Gray.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 3PM to 4PM on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam NY, where a Funeral Service will follow at 4PM with Reverend Kent McHeard officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the Glen Volunteer Fire Department 134 Auriesville Road Fultonville, NY 12072.