b'Incredible ImpactOne mans thrift-store legacy helped to raise millionsKnown for his exceptional work ethic, far He also served Citygate Network (then called reaching influence, and sincere faith, Ed Graythe International Union of Gospel Missions)spent more than five decadesas the president from 198083, as a district in thriftstore operation andpresident for several years, as a board memconsulting, revolutionizingber, as a workshop leader, and as a committee the way ministries weremember for more than three decades.supported. Ed, who passedEd received an honorary doctorate degree away in early 2018, helpedfrom Georgias Toccoa Falls College. Ed Gray boost income and improve thriftstore operations atAfter retiring at 62, Ed founded Grays dozens of rescue missions, from Florida to Consulting and used his expertise and allin California and even in international locations.attitude to profoundly impact and help launch Rusty Parrish, president of the consultingmore than 100 ministry thrift stores, Leo said. group www.thriftstorespecialist.com, called EdHe also conducted yearly ACTS thriftstore a titan and a guru. His work was absolutelyconferences to support charitable organizainstrumental in the entire scope of missionstions seeking to fund their missions.and homeless shelters getting into the thriftMany of his clients would let you know, If it store business, Rusty said.hadnt been for Dr. Gray, we would not be the During his career as the executive directorministry we are today, Leo said.of Waterfront Rescue Mission in Florida, EdThe hardworking, handson consultant freely shared with ministry leaders what hehelped raisethrough successful thrift had learned about successful store operation,storesmany millions of dollars that made said his son, Leo Gray. He launched multiplea substantial difference for those in need.thrift stores, which, at the time of his retire I remember him saying that early in his ministry ment, provided 80 percent of income forat the Waterfront Rescue Mission, he could visit the mission. churches and donors all day and come home With Leo, in 1990 he founded the Associationonly with promises for future support, Leo said. of Mission Stores, which later became theBut he could sell a few couches, some clothes, Association of Christian Thrift Stores (ACTS).and an appliance or two at the Bargain Center 12 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022'