Help Honor Makaila’s Fathers Final Wishes

Hi, my name is Alia, and I’m creating this fundraiser for my dear friend Makaila, who is facing the heartbreaking loss of her father, Robert Anthony Gray.

Robert was born on September 20, 1962, and passed away far too soon on May 11, 2025. He was a beloved son, brother, and father to seven amazing children. Robert was known for his love of the outdoors—gardening, hiking, fishing—and for his incredible talent as a drummer, which is how he met Makaila’s mother in college. Above all, he was fun, kind-hearted, and hardworking. He brought so much joy to those around him.

Just weeks ago, Robert was diagnosed with cancer. Tragically, he passed suddenly from pneumonia and a pulmonary embolism. His passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Makaila is one of the kindest, most radiant people I know—a true light in her community. She is always giving her time, love, and support to others. Now, it’s our turn to show up for her.

Makaila and her 96-year-old grandmother are working together to honor Robert’s final wishes: to lay him to rest in Jamaica with family, and to bring his ashes back to the U.S. to be with his children. They’ve already poured everything they have into covering nearly $8,000 in expenses, but they are still about $1,400 short of what’s needed to complete this journey.

These are difficult times for many, and it’s never easy to ask for help. But if you feel moved to support Makaila—whether through a donation or by simply sharing this fundraiser—it would mean the world. Every little bit helps bring her father home.

Thank you for reading, thank you for caring, and thank you for helping honor the memory of a truly special man.