Darwin Leon Gray, Salina, Kansas (91) passed away January 26, 2026.  Born on 8 January 1935 in Assaria, Kansas to Edwin and May (Smith) Gray.

Leon is preceded in death by Edwin (Father), May (Mother), Lloyd (Half-Brother), Larry (Brother), Lola (Half-Sister), Oda (Half-Sister), and Oral (Half-Sister).

Leon married Diana Greenegard on May 15, 1960, in Fostoria, Kansas.

Dad was a graduate of the Assaria High School Class of 1953. Following graduation, he went to work in bridge construction.  Leon then went on to work for the State of Kansas for 39 years. First, working as a dispatcher and communications technicianfor the Kansas Highway Patrol. Then, as a Communications Coordinator for the KS Dept of EMS.

After retirement, he drove a school bus for USD 306 Southeast of Saline for 19 years as a substitute bus driver.  Finally, Leon drove a bus for 9 years for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of Salina.

He was active in many organizations.  Leon was a Charter Life member of the American Radio Relay League (Ham Radio).  He served as Frequency Coordinator for APCO for several years.  Dad was a Life Member of both National Rifle Association and Kansas State Rifle Association. Leon was also a member of the Bennington Chapter, Kansas State Society Sons Of The American Revolution.  Leon was a Life Member of the VFW Auxiliary and a new member of American Legion Post 62.  Finally, He was a licensed private pilot.

In 1953, Leon enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve serving for 6 years and then enlisting in the U.S. Army Reserve serving for 3 years.  He received Honorable Discharges from both services.

Leon is survived by his wife Diana of 65 years, Sons; Doug (Westmoreland), Darin (Abilene), Devin (Abilene), and Grand-Sons, John (Wichita), and James (Wichita.)

A memorial service with military honors is scheduled for February 14, 2026, at 2 pm at Ryan Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Kansas Honor Flight or your favorite charity.