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).
My first job was working for Mr. Gray at the old Ludwig Aeolian store in Crestwood Mall in the early 80s. He was virtuoso musician, consummate performer, and outstanding salesman who I count as an influence on my own musical development. RIP neighbor.
I was a neighbor of Bob and Susan. One of the times they left on a trip, I accidently set their and my grass on fire! When they returned Bob was very gracious and forgave me. It turned out OK since it was zoysia grass and grew right back in the spring. I will miss you Bob… Susan I love you!
Sister heather told me sad news our uncle bob passed away after many years I decided while I was driving to new Mexico my stopover was in st Louis I called information got his number and called him after talking he decided to visit myself and my son we talked for awhile and was happy we connected so was I rest in peace uncle bob and to my cousin Jeff sorry for your loss and to his family in saint Louis god bless u all
Hi David –
I’m David, his stepson. He spoke very highly of you often and was always thrilled to receive your phone calls! Thank you for your lovely sentiments. Jeff sent me some great pictures of your Uncle Bob and your mom when they were kids – if you don’t have those, reach out to Jeff and I’m sure he’d be happy to share.
Bob was a coworker at McMurray Music and we crossed paths many times after the store closed. A very friendly and funny person and a joy to work with. I use to have fun trying to stump him by asking him to play random songs such as obscure folk songs and popular songs of the 1800s and early 1900s. I don’t think I ever did.