The passing of Todd Gray

[John Pollard]

Dear PS Community.

I wanted to share news here about the unexpected passing of Todd Gray, as he was a longtime contributor on PriceScope.

For those who did not know him, Todd was an early adopter and advocate of diamond cut quality. He first sourced and sold exceptionally cut stones through his Oregon store and online. He later moved abroad where he dedicated his NiceIce.com website to affiliate marketing with like-minded partners. Todd engaged in stimulating discussions with colleagues, consumers, enthusiasts and respected competitors here on PriceScope for many years. The man was a remarkable educator, with an easy manner, a keen wit and a great sense of humor. He used his knowledge and skills to positively guide countless diamond shoppers.



I hadn't spoken with Todd in more than a year. I was told he contracted an infection which damaged his heart. They operated to repair the damage, after which things seemed okay, but he passed away suddenly on May 1st. He is survived by his wife and son.

Another wonderful individual taken too soon. Don’t spare the hugs for everyone you care about.

 

[Texas Leaguer]

Very sad news indeed.

Thank you for the nice tribute John.

Life is short. Make it count by focusing on what matters.

 

[Karl_K]

Yes very sad news.
I have not talked to him in several years but fondly remember him as one of the good guys and a good man.
The world is a little less bright with his passing.
Prayers for his family and friends outgoing!

 

[Rockdiamond]

Thanks for the powerful eulogy John. Spreading diamond love is always good.

 

[Victor Canera]

Really saddened to hear this. I hadn't spoken to Todd in a couple of years as well and last I knew he was still in Mexico.
Rest in peace Todd.

 

[Mlh]

Omg. He was the kindest Man. I am so sad to hear this.

 

[Dreamer_D]

RIP. I remember him from the early days of this forum.

 

[DejaWiz]

Stumbled across some of his past postings here and spent some time reading and researching at his website.
Condolences to Todd's family and friends.
Aside from these circumstances, good to see you here, John Pollard.

 

[MissGotRocks]

So sad to hear this. I remember him from years ago.

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

Oh, very sad. I recall Todd's contributions and Nice Ice. Condolences to his family.

kind regards--Sharon

 

[Ibrakeforpossums]

Oh sh*t, oh no! Oh God! He was so wonderful. He had many tragic events in his life but he recounted them with courage and grace. He helped me in a profound way when trying to buy a FI yellow EC from B2C, for no good reason but that he could help. This man was so kind, he had an account with a local exotic animal veterinarian and when he found orphaned possums - or whatever - he took them to her. He was so kind to me and I'm nobody. This is a great loss. I'm sick to learn this. My most heartfelt sympathy to his family.
I will treasure my NiceIce Asscher.

 

[missy]

He was such a kind man. My deepest condolences to his family and all who loved him. May he RIP

 

[John Pollard]

Thank you, everyone. It's been comforting to read all your positive memories of Todd.

Along with his wife and son, I've learned he is survived by his mother, siblings, children, and grandchildren. I'll see if this thread can be shared with the family.

Sad news aside, it's nice to see all of you.

 

[Wink]

I was blessed to have met Todd many years ago. He came to Boise specifically to meet me after a flood in downtown Boise resulted in my deciding to kayak down Main Street for the fun of it, since I had my kayak in my truck and was not going to be able to go kayaking that afternoon as I was also busy watching the level of the water in the downstairs of my building for the landlord who was out of town that day. When the water got within an inch or two below the electrical outlets in the building, I turned off the power to the building.

A local news team took a video of me and it made the national news. Todd decided he needed to meet the insane man kayaking down Main Street in downtown Boise. We spent the afternoon and evening together and told many fun stories about our lives. (One of my favorites was of the crotch munching German Shepherd that Todd released on a child molester who was resisting arrest back in the days when he worked for the Police.)

We ended up doing a lot of business together after that, as I was able to assist him in acquiring the cut quality he desired for his clients. I think it has been four or five months since I spoke with him last. We would talk every few months just to shoot the breeze, and frankly, I wish I had called more often. He was a very kind man and helped people on many levels. He was a fascinating man with several different projects in different areas of life. He will be truly missed by many.

Thank you, John Pollard, for bringing this to our attention.