Harold Gray Underwood, affectionately called Gray by many close family members and friends, had a sunrise on February 24, 1949, and a peaceful sunset on December 4, 2022. 

Harold was born to Lieutenant Underwood and Roberta Greene in Akron, Ohio. 

Harold graduated from East High School in Akron, Ohio, in 1967 and enlisted in the United States Army. After an honorable discharge, Harold attended Cosmetology School in Detroit, Michigan, and became a licensed Cosmetologist. Harold married the love of his life, Ernestine Dexter, in January of 1980. They shared their love story with all those around them, but especially their five sons. Harold accepted Christ and joined the Arlington Church of God under the leadership of Dr. Ronald J. Fowler. He served as a trustee and in the video ministry for several years. Harold loved to travel with Ernestine, family, and friends. They were active in a travel club for many years. He was also an avid golfer and loved to watch all sports!

Harold was a true entrepreneur. His life’s work and passion were Cosmetology. He became a platform artist and later opened several high-end beauty salons. His book entitled “Hair Cutting Simplified”, was the catalyst for his teaching career. 

Harold began teaching Cosmetology in the East Cleveland City School District and ultimately opened his own beauty school, “The Cut,” where he helped hundreds of students find a vocation and earn Cosmetology licenses. After his semi-retirement from Cosmetology, Harold continued to reinvent and educate himself to be the best version of himself for he and his family. He and Ernestine later opened a restaurant and then a transportation company, providing services for working adults with disabilities. 

Harold is preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Chester Greene; granddaughter, Aciana Underwood; brothers, Oscar Underwood and Herman Underwood; sister, Johnnie Malvin; and step-siblings, Ronald Greene, Roland Greene, and Roberta Greene.

Harold leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 42 years, Ernestine Underwood; his sons, Arnold (aka Scrapper), Eryck, Jamaal, Damon, and Temar; devoted siblings, William Underwood, Darlene (Ernie) Mims, Gary Green, Johnny (Melanie) Green; step-siblings, Rosalyn Green and Raymond Green; sisters-in-law, Mabel Underwood and June Underwood; loving mother-in-law, Patsy Dexter. To further cherish his memory and carry on his legacy, Harold leaves seven grandchildren, Antonio, Chris, Charleka, Elijah, Ernestine, Damon, and Harley, and a host of other family members, friends, former students, and his faithful dog, Buddy.