"Coach" Preston F Gray

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of “Coach” Preston Fitzgerald Gray, 60, on February 15, 2025. A beloved husband, father, mentor, and friend, Preston’s life was a testament to dedication and leadership.

Born in St. Louis on June 14, 1964 and moved to Louisville, Kentucky at an early age. Preston was a force to be reckoned with on the field and the court. His athleticism and drive led him to become an All-American, chosen by Parade Magazine, Street and Smith’s Adidas, and National Coaches Association. He was a state champion and hurdler and 1983 All-American track star. He was called the best high school athlete by his former coach, Buddy Pfaadt. He was inducted into DuPont Manual Hall of Fame and his football jersey retired. He earned a scholarship to Michigan State but he transferred to the University of Louisville. Preston graduated in 1990 from UofL with a degree in education.

Preston’s love for athletics extended far beyond his own playing days. He found his true calling in coaching, pouring his heart and soul into shaping young athletes both on and off the field. He coached four years in Louisville at PRP and Western, but spent the rest of his time coaching in Floyd and Greater Clark County Schools, most notably as the head football coach for New Albany and Jeffersonville High Schools. His impact went beyond the X’s and O’s—he was a mentor, a motivator, and a guiding light for countless students.

Those who knew Preston will remember him not only as a dedicated coach but as a loving and devoted husband, father, and friend. His warm presence, unwavering support, and infectious passion for the game left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife, Natalie Gray; and daughter, Noelle Gray; his brother, Percy Gray III, Patrick Gray Sr., Pontrael Gray and sister, Pertice Gray; his mother-in-law,, Betty Wright; and brother-in-law, Darryl Wright and Sean Wright (Stacie). Preston was preceded in death by his mother, Constance Gray (Staten); his father, Percy Gray, Jr.; his brother, Paul Gray; father-in-law, Arthur Wright (Sonny). He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Preston’s family will receive visitors from 11 a.m. until service time on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Legacy Funeral Center, 921 Main Street - Jeffersonville. A celebration of his life will take place at 3 p.m. at the funeral home, with cremation to follow.

His legacy will live on in the athletes he coached, the lives he touched, and the love he shared with his family and friends. He will never be forgotten.

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