Norman, Oklahoma - David Lawrence Gray was born March 31, 1963, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Gerald and Rhea Gray. David passed suddenly at home in Norman, Oklahoma, on May 30, 2025. David grew up in Tulsa and graduated from Mason High School, where he was a member of the swim team. David attended Oklahoma State University.

David was passionate about all things water - swimming, sailing, and boating. David coached swimming at the Norman YMCA for over 30 years and inspired countless youth and adult swimmers and triathletes. David's passion for swimming was contagious and his gentle coaching approach made practices fun while providing the techniques to swim quickly and efficiently. David coached athletes at all levels, including those who competed at Olympic trials, and national and world triathlon and multisport events.

Beyond his professional duties, David supported his athletes, often surprising them by showing up at their races and events state-wide, and always encouraging them to have fun during their competitions. David was a co-founder of SaBaR, central Oklahoma's first youth triathlon team and development program, and a dedicated volunteer to the TRI-OKC triathlon community. David was an active member of the Thunderbird Sailing Club, and served as Rear Commodore.

David was the Fun Uncle to his cherished nephew, Scott, and niece, Courtney. Every time he came to visit, he brought unique and fun toys. He fully engaged with them and enjoyed entertaining them. David was also fond of photography, grilling meat, collecting cars, and time with friends and family.

David was predeceased by his grandparents, parents, and brother Brian. He leaves behind his brother Michael (Lesa), nephew Scott Gray (June), niece Courtney Gray Barnard (Huntor), great nieces and nephews Amelia Gray, Thomas Gray, Lincoln Barnard, and Lucy Barnard, and a host of family, friends, and former students.

Services will be held 3 pm June 25, 2025, at Floral Haven, Broken Arrow; and 3 pm June 26, 2025, at the Norman YMCA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Norman YMCA, in memory of David Gray, or to a charity of your choice.