In Memoriam: Charles E. Gray, Founder of Gray Ritter Graham

Gray Ritter Graham is saddened to announce the death of the firm's founder, Charles E. Gray. Mr. Gray established the firm in 1946, and during his 50 years of practice was recognized as one of the outstanding trial lawyers in America.

After serving as an Army Captain in the second World War, Mr. Gray graduated from Washington University in 1947. Under special Supreme Court rules in effect at that time for military veterans pursuing a career in law, Mr. Gray actually began his law practice in 1946, while still a law student. By the time he graduated from law school, he had already tried one jury case and had argued an appeal to the Missouri Supreme Court, an almost unheard of feat for a young lawyer at the time.

In addition to an active practice of law for many years, Mr. Gray operated a cattle breeding farm in Doe Run, Missouri, the community of his birth.

Mr. Gray was a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, the International Society of Barristers, The Missouri Bar and the American Bar Association.

He received many honors during his career, including the prestigious Award of Honor from the Lawyers Association of St. Louis in 1977.

Bob Ritter, Chairman of Gray Ritter Graham, his son-in-law and long-time partner, spoke of our firm's founder:

"Charlie Gray was the finest trial and appellate lawyer I have ever seen or heard about. He was also my revered partner and wonderful friend. We have lost a great man but his name and rich legacy will endure."

Mr. Gray will be missed by his family and friends, and particularly his colleagues at Gray Ritter Graham, to which he continued to be an inspiration.