Tommy Joe Gray

Tommy Joe Gray 4/27/1947 - 2/5/2023 Tommy left this world peacefully on Feb 5, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Tommy is survived by, the love of his life, his wife of 55 years, Carol Gray. His children Ken Gray, Shelley Gray, Jill Putman and son in law David Putman. His grandchildren Kyle Gray, Ashtlyn and spouse Austin Mitchell, Abigail Putman, Connor Putman, Ella Putman and Michael Putman. His great grandchildren Jackson Gray, Kensley and Levi Mitchell and Jack Putman. And extended grandchildren Garred, Sara and Allee Engle. Tommy was born in Wasco, CA and raised in Bakersfield, Ca. He graduated from South High School in 1965. He served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Bennington and he served in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1970. He started his college education at Bakersfield College majoring in computer programming before attending California State University of Bakersfield where he earned his Bachelor of science degree and his Masters degree in Public Administration. His highest achievement was becoming a fellow of court management and he was presented his diploma from Justice Warren Berger at the Washington DC Supreme Court. His career consisted of working as a computer programmer and system analyst for the county. Probation business manager at Kern County probation department. Director of data processing at Kern County Superintendent of schools. Supervisor of applications support at Bechtel Petroleum. He retired as the Administrator of West Kern Municipal Courts. He received his pilots license in 1977 and loved to fly. He loved cheering for Kevin Harvick when watching Nascar, the 49ers, playing golf, bowling, coaching his children in AYSO soccer, spending time with his family at his cabin in Balance Rock and drinking Pepsi. The love for his family and pets was by far, his greatest love. He will be greatly missed and cherished by his family! Memorial services to be held on 3/27/2023 at 2:00pm at Bakersfield National Cemetery 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd. Arvin, CA 93203