Wayne Rodney Gray, 72, of Park Forest, Illinois, passed away on June 1, 2024 at his home. Wayne was born August 17, 1951 in Chicago, Illinois to Richard Gray and Bernice Chandler. He attended Hirsch High School in Chicago. Following his studies Wayne enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. Following his enlistment Wayne served as a Postal Window Clerk for the Spiegle Post Office for over 30 years. Wayne was an accomplished musician and gifted performer. He and his twin brother Duayne began taking piano lessons at the age of 5 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He sang in church with his brother Duayne and continued his keyboard studies for many years. Wayne was gifted in musical technique and performance. Eventually his skills as a pianist, vocalist and percussionist led to performing with Gene Chandler and also opening performances for numerous well known artists to include Kool & the Gang and DeBarge. In 2001, Wayne and Duayne formed Gray Matters a jazz, R&B, funk & blues group that also performed an eclectic variety of other musical styles in Chicago and in many other cities. Wayne performed as a pianist and vocalist on the groups 2006 CD release, entitled "Gray Matters". For many years Wayne continued as a highly respected participant and well-loved musician within the Chicago area music scene. He creativity, eye for detail and passion for the arts included numerous sketches and paintings. Wayne loved all sports and was an avid Chicago Bears and Chicago Bulls fan. He married the love of his life, Beverly on April 13, 2001 in Chicago. Wayne is preceded in death by his mother Bernice Chandler and sister Laticia Gray-Humphries. Wayne is survived by his wife Beverly Gray; daughter, Lissa Gray, son Keion Gray; stepson, Francisco Antonio Soto (Angeles); brother Duayne Gray (Maria), sister Crystal Ball; grandchildren, Taylor Edmond and Brian Gray; Great-Grandchildren, Nathaniel Ruiz and Malakai Ruiz and a host of other loving relatives and friends. Services Visitation Friday June 7, 2024 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Lain-Sullivan Funeral Directors 50 Westwood Dr. Park Forest, IL 60466-1419 Funeral Service Friday June 7, 2024 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Lain-Sullivan Funeral Directors 50 Westwood Dr. Park Forest, IL 60466-1419