Robert James Gray
​November 13, 1977 – February 20, 2026

​Robert James Gray, 48, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, at his home.

Born in Chowan County on November 13, 1977, to William Robert and Deborah Kay Griffin Gray, Rob was a man who built a life as sturdy and honest as the houses he worked on during his years as a carpenter in residential construction.

​While he was a builder by trade, Rob was a "Jack of all Trades" by nature. He was the family's resident Mr. Fix-It, always ready to tinker until the job was done. When he wasn't masterfully navigating a job site, you could find him by the water with a fishing pole in hand or tending to his farm animals—most notably his favorite, Bigg Momma the chicken.

​Rob's heart was as big as his personality. He expressed his love through the elaborate meals he spent hours preparing and through the music that served as the soundtrack to his life. To be loved by Rob often meant being "aggravated" by him; his favorite love language was playfully pestering those he cared about just to hear them laugh.

​Above all, Rob was the "Jack to the Sally" for his beloved wife, Ann. Their bond was "simply meant to be," and his love for her was only rivaled by his passion for all things The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Rob is survived by his wife, Ann Brickhouse, his son, Robert James Gray Jr. of Columbia, his daughter, Lydia Anne Gray (Guy Clifton) of Creswell, his grandson, Little Guy Clifton, III, his mother, Deborah G. Gray, his sister, Crystal Marie Sheline (Matthew) of Elizabeth City, and a host of special aunts, uncles, and cousins.

​He was preceded in death by his father, William Robert Gray.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Bryan Funeral Service, Columbia.