Merle J. Cray Sr.

PLAINVILLE - Merle "Spud" Cray Sr., 92, of Plainville, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, October 3, 2021. He was the loving husband of the late Janet Ruth (Sanders) Cray, with whom he shared 52 wonderful years.

Merle was born on August 10, 1929, in Caribou, Maine to the late Manzer Cray and Phyllis (Hazlett) Cray. He worked as a Rigger for Northeast Rigging and Tomasso's until his retirement.

Merle served honorably and proudly in the Navy where he patrolled the Mediterranean from the Midway.  This is also where his Navy comrades gave him the nickname "Spud" since he was born in Maine.

Merle lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed many hobbies and activities. He was known in town for racing stock cars at Tinty's track and was an avid trike rider and enthusiast.  Merle's most cherished hobby was taking road trips around the country in his camper with his wife Janet. They camped all over the United States and enjoyed being together exploring. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Merle leaves his son, Merle "Rusty" Cray, Jr. of Plainville, Diane Cray, his grandchildren, April, Austin, and Cody, and many relatives and friends.  Besides his wife Janet, Merle was preceded in death by his daughter, Merle Jane Cray.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service with full military honors at “Spud’s Garage”, 87 Pickney Ave, Plainville on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 1 p.m. A luncheon will immediately follow the service. The Bailey Funeral Home of Plainville has been entrusted with Spud’s arrangements. To leave an online message of remembrance, please visit www.bailey-funeralhome.com.

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