Dr. Phillip H. Gray, 73, of Iuka, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026.

Born on September 21, 1952, Dr. Gray grew up in Tishomingo County and graduated from Belmont High School in 1970. He continued his education at Northeast Mississippi Community College, graduating in 1972, and furthered his studies at Mississippi State University, where he earned a degree in Chemistry in 1973. He went on to receive his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern College of Optometry in 1978.

Dr. Gray was a dedicated local optometrist who spent 42 years improving the vision and lives of residents across the Tishomingo County area. In 1978, he established his first optometry clinic in Iuka. Over the next four decades, he expanded his practice to serve patients in both Iuka and Belmont, providing essential, compassionate eye care to multiple generations of local families. He was joined in practice by his son, Dr. Adam Gray, in 2006, and later by his daughter, Dr. Emily Presson, in 2010. Having his children practice alongside him was one of his proudest accomplishments. His professional legacy continues to thrive through them today.

Outside of the exam room, Phillip was a devoted family man and a cherished husband. He was a faithful member of Iuka Baptist Church, where he held various leadership roles over the years. He especially loved his role as an usher and greeter on Sunday mornings, serving as a warm, smiling face to everyone who entered the church doors. He was a devoted fan of Mississippi State athletics and rarely missed a home football game. He also treasured time spent in the woods alongside his forestry friends. While he found joy in many things throughout his life, nothing brought him greater happiness than playing with his grandchildren.

Dr. Gray leaves behind a large, loving family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 53 years, Margaret Gray; his son, Dr. Adam Gray (Rebecca); his daughter, Dr. Emily Presson (Justin); and his five grandchildren: Mary Ellis Gray, Evelyn Gray, Hannah Presson, Lucas Presson, and Anne Presson. He is also survived by his brothers, Bill Gray (Janice) and Jeff Gray (Tina); his nieces and nephews: Jessica Gray, Brittany McGee, Joshua Gray, Makenzie Ballard, and Ryan Gray; alongside many loved extended family members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nell Pharr; his brother, Tim Gray; and his special friend, Hassell Bennett.

Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS, is entrusted with the arrangements.

Visitation is scheduled from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Iuka Baptist Church. A celebration of Dr. Gray's life and legacy will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 11:00 am at Iuka Baptist Church, officiated by Dr. Johnny Hancock. 

An online guestbook may be accessed at www.cutshallfuneralhome.com.