James Gray is a proud native Floridian, born in Gainesville and raised in nearby Ocala. He attended the University of Central Florida, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology while working as a manager at Barnes & Noble, a role that strengthened his lifelong passion for reading.

That passion ultimately led James to a career in education. He returned to his alma mater, Belleview High School, to teach English, where he found his greatest reward in helping students from all backgrounds grow, achieve, and discover confidence in themselves. In 2015, James married his wonderful wife, Kacey, and together they’re the proud parents of two daughters: Frances “Frankie,” born August 11, 2018, and Goldie Gray, born February 7, 2022. Their family also includes Yoda, a Maine Coon cat who happily assumes the role of protective older brother.

As the eldest of four siblings, James deeply values strong family connections. Most of his immediate family still lives nearby in Florida, allowing him to stay closely connected. In his free time, he enjoys relaxing with loved ones, exploring Florida’s natural landscapes through hiking, kayaking, and biking, and attending live music events with Kacey.

James is truly grateful to work for a company that prioritizes community, connection, and employee well-being. “The Villages is amazing because you get to meet so many interesting people and make great friendships,” he says. “I love helping my customers improve their quality of life. Seeing residents enjoy themselves and knowing I’ve played a small part in that is incredibly rewarding.”

In 2021, James was honored by The Villages with a street named after him in the Village of Moultrie Creek, an acknowledgment of his dedication to the community he proudly serves.