Travis James Gray

It is with deep love and fond memories that we announce the passing of our beloved Travis James Gray, who left us on November 11, 2024, at the age of 42. Travis passed away at home, surrounded by family, under the compassionate care of the Hospice of Eastern Idaho.

Travis was born on March 11, 1982, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Kim Zane Gray Sr. and Teresa Ann Gray. From the moment he arrived, he had a spark that could light up any room. Growing up in Idaho Falls, Travis was the kind of person who made life more fun just by being a part of it. He graduated from Skyline High School and later earned his CDL license, pursuing a career as a truck driver. He loved the open road, the freedom, and the adventures it brought. But even more than that, Travis loved the people he met along the way—he never met a stranger.

Travis was a true jokester and class clown at heart. He had a zest for life that was contagious, always making people laugh with his jokes, his antics, and his playful spirit. Whether it was pulling a prank, cracking a joke, or simply making people smile with his laughter, Travis knew how to bring life into any situation. He could turn even the dullest moment into a laugh-filled memory, and he loved to keep everyone on their toes.

As part of the “Briggs’ Big Belly Brothers,” Travis spent a lot of time with his uncles, who shared his sense of humor and teased him mercilessly. If you ever touched his shoulder, you’d find yourself laughing out loud because Travis would jokingly think you were trying to choke him, reacting in mock terror, which was always good for a hearty laugh. His ability to make light of life’s little challenges and keep things fun and full of laughter was one of his greatest gifts.

Travis’s unique way of pronouncing things also became a cherished part of his charm—he had his own “Travis-style” language that was as endearing as it was funny. His family and friends loved him for these quirks, and it’s those little moments that will be remembered most fondly.

One thing that always got people laughing was Travis’s spontaneous sense of adventure, especially when it came to cars. If you were sitting in a car stopped at a red light, you might not have known it, but you and Travis were now in a race and you had no choice but to go along with it! What would start as a quick trip to the gas station often turned into hours-long drives around town as Travis decided to “fix” his car speakers. Whether he was adjusting the bass, fiddling with the wiring, or blasting his favorite songs, those drives were never short. And no matter the song playing, Travis would always make it his own. He has a talent for rewording every song into his own personal remix, belting out his unique version of the lyrics, much to the amusement (and sometimes confusion) of his passengers.

Travis’s playful nature wasn’t just about the jokes; he had a heart as big as his personality. He adored his family, and there was nothing more important to him than his children: his daughter, Tara; his son, Tegan; and his step-son, Tyson. Watching them grow and sharing in their lives brought him an immense sense of pride and happiness. He was a dad who loved deeply and laughed often.

In his free time, Travis loved tinkering with cars and blasting music. He was always happiest when he was doing something he loved, especially when he could share those moments with family and friends. He brought an undeniable energy to every gathering.

Travis leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and joy. He is survived by his mother, Teresa Ann Gray of Idaho Falls; his father, Kim Zane Gray Sr.; his ex-wife, Jaylynn Gray; his daughter, Tara Sievers of Carey, ID; his son, Tegan Chaz Gray of Idaho Falls; his stepson, Tyson Gray; and his two grandchildren, who brought him so much joy; his brother, Kim Gray Jr.; his sister, Dawn Gray; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will carry his memory with love and laughter.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Lois and Don Briggs; his paternal grandparents, Ivan and Bonita Gray; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins, whose memory he cherished.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share a funny memory of Travis or offer a smile to someone who needs it—just as he did every day of his life.

Travis will always be remembered for his infectious laughter, his playful spirit, and his ability to make every moment brighter. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy of joy, kindness, and laughter will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Travis’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Watersprings Church, 4250 S. 25th E., Idaho Falls. We invite all those who knew and loved Travis to join his family in celebrating his life, his joy, and his unforgettable sense of humor.