Published on February 23, 2026 4:18 pm
Last Updated on February 23, 2026 4:18 pm
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Nathaniel “Nate” Gray, 34, passed away unexpectedly on February 17, 2026.
Nate grew up in Effingham and later made his home in Palm Bay, Florida where he built a life defined by independence, loyalty, and deep love for those closest to him. He was a proud 2011 graduate of St. Anthony’s High School. Nate attended Lake Land Community College before proudly serving his country as a member of the United States Navy. After his military service, he worked at a funeral home running the crematorium — a role that required steadiness, dignity, and respect for families in their most difficult moments. Most recently, he was employed in security at Kennedy Space Center. He was a beloved son, brother, fiancée, uncle, and friend. Nate loved his family fiercely and had a special place in his heart for his pets. He was known for being honest, strong-willed, and authentic — a true “square peg in a round hole” who never tried to fit where he didn’t belong. He respected integrity and suffered fools rarely. Nate collapsed at work and, despite every effort, was never revived. In keeping with his generous spirit, he was an organ and tissue donor, giving the gift of life and healing to others even in his passing.
He leaves behind his loving parents, Timm and Dianne Gray; his devoted fiancée, Sierra; his three sisters: Natalie (Brian) Repking, Nikki (Eric) Koester, and Naomi (Jacob) Ochs; 13 cherished nieces and nephews, Aubrey, Alizabeth, Brayden, and Anna Grayce Repking, Dalton, Layla, Benton, Payslee, and Katelynn Koester, and Ellen, Edward, Alex, and Aiden Ochs; extended family including grandparents, Wayne and Evelyn Marti and Joann Gray; and many friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Nate was preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul and Phyllis Gray, and aunt, Kris Drew.
A celebration of Nate’s life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with a 5:30 p.m. time of sharing at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Anthony and Teutopolis Schools. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.