[Houston, TX] – Westbury Christian School has dedicated the Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center, a vital hub for student activity and spiritual development. The Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center, which includes the cafeteria, stage, gymnasium, and fine arts hall, represents a major “heartbeat” area of the school. Most of the experiences and activities of school that happen outside of the classroom take place in this area of the building.
“These spaces are much more than classrooms, a cafeteria, a gym,” said WCS Head of School Nathan Wagner. “These places are where our students get to uncover and explore the gifts and talents that God has given them. Places where they often discover a new passion, places they may consider their home on campus. These are spaces where they are known, loved, and encouraged to do great things.”
The Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center reflects the extraordinary generosity of Jack and Mary Gray. The Grays have been committed to sharing the Gospel throughout their lives, and they believed Christian education was an important part of that mission.
A Legacy of Christian Education
The Gray family became friends and donors to Westbury Christian School in the late 1990s. Mrs. Inez Gray, the family matriarch, was a matron of the school until her death. Following in his mother’s footsteps, her son Jack and his wife Mary became regular donors to WCS. In the year 2000, Jack Gray was appointed to the Westbury Christian School Board of Trustees. Mr. Gray served in that capacity for approximately fifteen years, faithfully accepting the role as an important responsibility.
During his tenure as a trustee, Mr. and Mrs. Gray became dependable friends of the school. Always present at many school functions, they encouraged others to support the school in their church and community. The Grays were liberal donors, helping in the building of Mundy Hall, making regular gifts for operations, and providing loans when needed. Their major financial offering to WCS will come in their final estate gift that will represent the largest gift in school history, to date.
A Heart for God and Students
Underlying all that Mr. and Mrs. Gray have done for Westbury Christian School is their undying love for God their Father, expressed by their belief that Christian education is a catalyst for preaching Christ and His crucifixion. In addition to supporting Christian education, the Grays have been faithful members of the Channelview Church of Christ since 1945. The Christian faith has been central to their lives.
“The money, the time and the love you and Mary have shared with this school have touched the hearts of students you haven’t met and have touched the lives of people who have yet to come through this door. We appreciate you more than you know it,” added former Head of School Robert McCloy.
The Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center stands as a testament to the Grays enduring legacy. It will continue to foster a vibrant environment where students explore their talents, develop their faith, and build lifelong friendships.
