John Daniel "J.D." Gray, 68, of Prattville, Ala., passed away on Feb. 28, 2024.

Born May 7, 1955, and a native of White City in north Autauga County, Ala., Mr. Gray was at the time of his death vice president and truck division manager of J.M. Wood Auction Company Inc. in Montgomery, Ala.

Prior to his employment with J.M. Wood, Mr. Gray sold trucks for The Cross Family of Gulf Coast Mack in Mobile, Ala., where he excelled at relationships and possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of truck specifications and values. Brenda Wood, co-founder of J.M. Wood Auction Company, recognized his talents and hired him in 1999 to lead the company's governmental truck division and to serve as vice president.

According to J.M. Wood, "He always answered his phone. Always. If he couldn't talk, he would answer the phone and say he'd call back later. His business acumen, work ethic and knack for interpersonal relationships shone in his roles as vice president and truck division manager of J.M. Wood Auction Company Inc. J.D. was a mentor to everyone at J.M. Wood Auction Company and to an entire industry. His legendary status in the world of vocational trucks and heavy equipment was well-earned.

"J.D. was a trusted friend and advisor to everyone who knew him," the company added. "People from every walk of life leaned on him for guidance, both professionally and personally. Dozens of people would say he was their best friend, and every one of them would be right."

Mr. Gray also owned a cattle farm and held leadership positions on numerous bank and philanthropic boards.

Mr. Gray was preceded in death by his parents, Nolan Gray and Mozell McGowin Gray. He is survived by his sister, Martha Gray; and extended family and many friends.

Funeral services were held March 3, 2024, at J.M. Wood Auction Company and interment was held March 4 at White City Cemetery in Prattville, Ala.