Robert Russell Gray, affectionately known throughout the community as the “Music Man,” passed away at his home surrounded by loved ones on April 6, 2026. He was 95.
Bob was born in Littleton, New Hampshire to Chester and Marion (Bolton). He attended the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston before joining the Tulsa Symphony as a cellist. He moved to the St. Louis area in 1960, serving as principal cellist for the Kirkwood Symphony. For seven decades, he delivered “fun, relaxation, and home enjoyment” through music as manager of several music stores throughout the region.
Bob was a popular keyboardist in St Louis, serving as the pianist for the St Louis Cardinal’s Club, conventions, and private events. He received several awards within the music retail industry having sold over 20k musical instruments throughout the St Louis region.
Bob was a lifelong Mason with Webster Groves Lodge and a member of the Shriners.
Bob is proceeded in death by his mother, father, and twin sister Betty Park. He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Susan Gray, son’s Jeff Gray and David Rachell, grandchildren Joshua and Alexandria, and a great granddaughter.
Services: Viewing will be held on Friday, (April 10th) from 4:00-800pm at Kutis Funeral Home, Affton, 10151 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, 63123. Funeral service will take place at Kutis Affton Chapel on Saturday, (April 11th) at 11:00am. Interment immediately following at Sunset Memorial Park and Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Shriners Children’s Hospital of St Louis (donate.shrinerschildrens.org).