Walter R. Maypray Sr.

Walter Maypray, age 84, of Gary, Indiana, formerly of Mortons Gap, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at 9:55 p.m. Sunday August 20, 2023 at Southlake Methodist Hospital in Gary, Indiana. 

Born June 7, 1939 a native of Mortons Gap, he was the first-born child from the union of the late Walter Lee Maypray and Catherine Bass. 

In his earlier years in life, he moved to Gary, IN and found a gainful employment with the US Steel Mill, retiring after 37 years of employment. 

Walter can be remembered for his love of basketball and watching "his ball games".  He was a star player in his high school years and was offered scholarships to play basketball for various colleges. 

Walter was known for his sense of humor enjoying life and making others laugh.  He made countless friendships as he faithfully walked around Gleason Park enjoying the comradery with others at the park. 

Walter will be truly missed. 

Walter also is preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Maypray of 34 years; daughter Brenda Maypray; son Michael E. Maypray; sister Juanita Reynolds; niece Sharon Reynolds; and Claudette Hadley. 

Walter leaves behind to cherish his memories his son Walter R. Maypray Jr. of Merrillville, Indiana; three daughters Sherry Maypray of Merrillville, Jacqueline (Gregory) Maypray-Fitch of Colton, California, and Joy (Michael) Henderson of Merrillville; 7 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; aunt Janice Johnson; special niece Karen Reynolds of Mortons Gap; brother-in-law Frederick Nolan of Gary; sister-in-law Erma Whiting of Lansing, Michigan; nieces, a nephew, and a host of other family and friends. 

Out of respect for his wishes only a graveside memorial will be held in his honor. 

Graveside services will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday September 2, 2023 at Flat Creek Cemetery in Mortons Gap.

The Reverend LaBarron F. McAdoo Jr. will deliver the graveside eulogy. 

There will be a processional starting at 12:30 p.m. beginning at Elliott-Bowles Mortuary located at 215 E. North Street in Madisonville to the Flat Creek Cemetery in Mortons Gap for the graveside service. 

Elliott-Bowles Mortuary is in charge of his professional services and arrangements. 

Condolences can be shared with the family at www.elliottmortuarycares.com.

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