Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. John Hall (D-NY19) announced today that his legislation to rename the Port Jervis Post Office the E. Arthur Gray Post Office Building has been signed into law by the President. The new law honors E. Arthur Gray, a former Mayor of Port Jervis and New York State Senator who passed away on April 10th, 2007 at the age of 82. The E. Arthur Gray Post Office Building is located at 20 Sussex Street in Port Jervis, New York.

 

"E. Arthur Gray left behind a legacy of friendship, involvement, and service that earned him a permanent place in the heart of Port Jervis and serves as an example of what it means to work for the betterment of your community," said Congressman Hall.

 

 As a resident of Port Jervis, Gray gave his undivided attention to issues both large and small and was widely known for his open-door policy. Gray remains the longest serving Mayor in the history of Port Jervis, having served for five and one half terms. During this tenure he was able to reinvigorate the downtown area and greatly improve the city’s economic development plan.
 
"By passing legislation that re-designates the post office in Port Jervis, NY as the E. Arthur Gray Post Office Building, the House, Senate, and President have acknowledged the contributions of an individual who loved his home town and who as a businessman, government official, and family man dedicated a significant portion of his time and energy to its civic life," stated Congressman Hall.
 
Port Jervis residents remember Gray as a man who was generous in nature, and willing to help those in need. After finishing his service as Mayor, Gray maintained his commitment to public service by successfully running for a seat in the New York State Senate in 1988.  He represented New York's 39th Senatorial District until 1990.
 
Born and raised in Port Jervis, Gray served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Naval Reserve during World War II.  He was also deeply involved in community life.  At one time or another, he was a member of the Port Jervis Community Development Agency, the Orange County Economic Development Agency, the National League of Small Cities Advisory Council, St. Mary's R.C. Church, Bon Secours Community Hospital Advisory Board, Knights of Columbus Council No. 471, Ancient Order of Hibernians in America, Elks Lodge No. 645, BPOE, Port Jervis Lions Club, Tri-States Chamber of Commerce, Port Jervis Country Club, Metaque Falls Hunting Club, Tri-States Rod & Gun Club, the Port Jervis Board of Education, and Port Jervis Planning Board.

 

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