Ellen Gray

Ellen (Wood) Gray 99, Grand Forks, died Saturday, March 26, 2016 in Valley Eldercare.   Ellen Wood Gray was born 99 years ago in Bisbee, North Dakota, to Gladys Jennings Wood, and George Portarlington Wood, on January 4, 1917. She graduated from High School, and went on to graduate from Jamestown College with her bachelor degree in Education during the hard times of the Depression. Ellen was a good student and participated in many activities, including band, chorus, speech, and was all county basketball guard at 5' 1" tall. During the Depression, her father bought a 10 cent chance and won a clarinet. Ellen went on to play in school, town and church band and orchestra events. She had a summer job directing the Rollette, North Dakota, municipal band while in college.   Ellen met Jack Gray while in high school at athletic events. They met again at Jamestown College, where he lived and worked in a coal bin while in college. He transferred to UND where he was an avid UND football fan. During half time, October, 22, 1938, Ellen and Jack walked across the bridge to East Grand Forks and were married. They had three daughters: Linda Lee, Patricia Ann, and Carol Susan, all graduates of the University of North Dakota. Ellen taught English and Social studies at both South and Central High from 1954 to 1982, when she was inducted into the Grand Forks Teachers Hall of Fame.    Ellen is survived by 9 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren who, along with her daughters, will miss her and Praise God for her support, humor, and nurture.   She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years John “Jack” Gray, her parents, 3 sisters, and 2 brothers.   Memorial service will be held Saturday, May 7, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. in Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 S. 42nd St Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the start of the service.