John D. Gray ’54

John prepared for Princeton at Evanston Township (Ill.) High School, where he excelled in swimming. At Princeton he lettered four years in varsity swimming, majored in history in the American Civilization Program, participated in Glee Club, and joined Quadrangle Club. He roomed with Frank Barnes, John Welland, and Bill Hawley.

John married Helen in 1955, earned an MBA from Northwestern in 1958, and moved to Cincinnati to begin a 35-year career in purchases at Procter & Gamble. He valued the lifelong relationships he made there.

Guided by his respect for Princeton’s emphasis on service, he was active in local government in the Village of Mariemont, serving as a village councilman for 10 years and launching a highly successful recycling program there. He also supported the Boy Scouts, where his sons all achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

He loved swimming, gardening, and traveling to see family. He was a lifelong member of the Christian Science Church.

John died June 3, 2019, in Cincinnati. He is survived by his wife, Helen; sons David, John, and Jim; two grandchildren; and sister Carolyn Elliott. He was predeceased by sister Louise.