October 14, 1964 - February 9, 2021
Leafs Nation feels a lot smaller after Edward Gray, age 56, of Terrace B.C. passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Despite a challenging diagnosis, Edward always found the good in every day until his death. We think he learned this resilience after enduring 54 difficult years cheering for the Leafs.
Edward is survived by his wife Laura, daughter Marlee, son Kyle, and dog Daisy "Maple Leaf" Gray. In New Brunswick, he is survived by his mother Dorean and brothers Norman and James. He is predeceased by his father Allison.
Edward was born in Centreville, New Brunswick and during his years in the Maritimes he discovered his love for hockey, developed his dry sense of humour, and most importantly met the love of his life, Laura. After a failed attempt at a business degree (he swears beer was not involved) Edward went back to the University of New Brunswick to become an elementary school teacher.
In 1990, Edward and Laura left New Brunswick for a "short" trip to Stewart B.C. to begin their teaching careers. Stewart quickly became home and Edward and Laura gained valuable teaching experience, made long lasting friendships and welcomed their first child, Kyle. In 1997, they moved to Terrace and bought their first home and six years later, their daughter Marlee was born.
Edward was passionate about his interests that include watching and occasionally getting angry about the Toronto Maple Leafs, being a teacher, coaching school sports, playing hockey, fishing and spending time with friends. Most of all, he loved being a dad to Marlee and Kyle.
On October 2nd, 2020 Edward was diagnosed with Stage IV Colon Cancer. His ability to stay positive throughout his illness was truly inspiring. He never stopped cracking jokes and he kept his family's spirits high throughout the entire journey. He always said , "Nothing is worth it if it's easy".
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Kimmunity Angels Society and cheering for the Leafs this year.
A Celebration of Life for Edward will take place when Covid-19 restrictions are lifted and we can all gather safely.