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International Business Machines Corp.

Remembering Lew Gray: A Life of Leadership and Devotion

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Lew Gray, a prominent figure in the world of business and family man, passed away on September 26, 2025, at the age of 88, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. Born on September 27, 1936, in Ottumwa, Iowa, Lew's life was marked by a distinguished 26-year career with IBM, where he held various leadership roles across the country, including Vice President of Sales and President of the NMD and SWMD Divisions. In Atlanta, Lew was instrumental in the construction of the IBM Tower, now known as One Atlantic Center, which helped spur the development of Midtown.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lew Gray served in the U.S. Army in Germany, where he met and married his wife, Nancy Joyce Hoeft, with whom he was married for nearly 65 years.
  • He held various leadership positions at IBM, including Vice President of Sales and President of the NMD and SWMD Divisions, and played a key role in the construction of the IBM Tower in Midtown Atlanta.
  • Following his retirement, Lew and his wife Nancy restored and lived in their beloved pre-Civil War home, Holly Hill, in Roswell.
  • Lew continued to serve on several corporate boards and traveled extensively with his wife, cherishing time with friends, family, and numerous reunions.
  • He is survived by his wife Nancy; son Michael and daughter Elizabeth; grandchildren Danielle, Olivia, and James; and sister Regina Garvey.
  • The family extends special thanks to the caregivers who gave Lew tremendous care and support, including Njeri, Esther, Joan, Perry, Holly, and granddaughter Danielle.
  • A small memorial and celebration of life gathering will be held at Magnolia Creek Farms Venue in Adairsville, Georgia, on November 2 at 2 PM.

Statistics:

  • Lew Gray served in the U.S. Army from [not specified], and had a 26-year career with IBM.
  • He was married to Nancy Joyce Hoeft for nearly 65 years.
  • Lew's time in Atlanta spanned multiple roles, including Vice President of Sales and President of the NMD and SWMD Divisions.
  • The IBM Tower in Midtown Atlanta, now known as One Atlantic Center, was constructed during Lew's tenure with the company.

Sources:

  • "Lewis Gray Obituary" on Dignity Memorial.com at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/roswell-ga/lewis-gray-12537182

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