Javian Monroe Gray, lovingly known as “JJ,” was born on March 19, 2006, to Fredrick Wendell Gray and Kimberly Sherese Barnes Gray. He departed this life on May 17, 2025, at WakeMed Hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina.

JJ accepted Christ at an early age at The Gathering Place in Raleigh, North Carolina, under the leadership of the late Bishop Ralph D. Graves. There, he served faithfully as a member of the Christian Arts Ministry, Media Team, and Youth Choir.

He attended Willow Springs High School in Willow Springs, North Carolina, and graduated in January 2024. JJ briefly played football, where his family could be heard enthusiastically cheering, “We love our #28!” at his games. He also had a passion for dancing and gaming, and he proudly earned a black belt in Taekwondo.

JJ was outgoing and full of energy—so much so that he once received the “Never a Dull Moment” class award. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. He loved being outdoors, taking walks, and was intentional about spending quality time with his family and friends.

His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his vibrant spirit. JJ will be remembered for the bright light he was and the impact he made on everyone around him. His life was one marked by love, compassion, and kindness.

JJ shared a deep, loving bond with his siblings and a close relationship with his mother and father. He is survived by his loving parents, Fred and Sherese Gray of Fuquay-Varina, NC; his siblings, Allison Janae Gray and Aaron Jamaal Gray of Fuquay-Varina; his half-brother, Brandon Wendell Williams of Jackson, MS; his grandmothers, Zelma Gray of Benton, MS, and Delois Barnes of Satartia, MS; and his adoptive grandparents, Wade and Juliette Wall of Cary, NC. He also leaves behind a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Monroe Gray and J.V. Barnes, Sr.

Those who knew JJ will forever remember his infectious smile, his joyful laughter, and his unwavering willingness to help others.

Visitation: 10:00 - 11:00 am Saturday, May 24, 2025, at The Gathering Place in Raleigh, NC 27610.

Funeral will be held 11:00 am Saturday, May 24, 2025, at The Gathering Place, 3500 Woodmeadow PKwy in Raleigh, NC 27610.

Burial: Wake Chapel Memorial Gardens, 905 Wake Chapel Rd, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526