SANFORD, Fla. — Melvin Vernon Gray Jr., 55, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017.

Mel was born and raised in Franklin, Virginia, and graduated from Southampton Academy in 1979.
He was married to Karen Conklin and they resided in Orlando, Florida, for the last 25 years where they enjoyed raising their many dogs.
Mel stayed busy with a successful career in sales.
Mel is also survived by his father, Melvin Vernon Gray Sr, (Barbara); his mother, Bettie Dodd; his sister, Kim Gaddy; and niece, Gracen Gaddy.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Hudnall Dodd Jr.; and his grandmother, Lavelle Powell.
The private family service will be in Memphis, Tennessee.
In recognition of Mel’s lifelong love of dogs, the family suggests memorial donations to assist the American Humane Society or your local pet shelter.