ALTON — James Gray, a prominent figure in the Alton community and former long-time president of the Alton Branch of the NAACP, died on Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, at the age of 90. Gray celebrated his 89th birthday in the spring of 2023, coinciding with the dedication of a street sign in his honor in Alton. The event drew a large gathering of family, friends, and community members who recognized Gray's decades-long contributions to civil rights and youth advocacy. Gray served as the president of the Alton Branch of the NAACP for more than 25 years, during which he was instrumental in various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of impoverished children in the area. Alton Alderwoman Rosetta Brown praised Gray, calling him "a legend in our community," and highlighted his significant impact on youth, civil rights, and local organizations. "Jim Gray has been the consummate servant to the people of Alton," Brown said. "He was front and center on many issues over the years." In additio
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