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Eric Gray-Kennedy Obituary

GRAY-KENNEDY, Eric John Age 46, of Boston, Massachusetts, formerly of Old Town, Maine, died Saturday, October 2, 2010, at Boston Medical Center as the result of a bicycle and motor vehicle accident on September 20, 2010 in Boston. Eric was born on March 3, 1964 in Bangor, Maine, son of Harold J. and Prudence M. Grant Kennedy. Eric grew up in Old Town and was a 1983 graduate of Old Town High School. He attended the University of Maine at Orono and was a graduate of Cambridge College in Cambridge, Massachusetts earning a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Eric worked for several years at Boston Medical Center as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and has been employed for the past two years as a hotline supervisor at Judge Baker Children's Center in Boston. In his spare time Eric loved going to the beach, Provincetown, and Randolph Country Club with his friends. In addition to his parents he is survived by three brothers, Scott Kennedy, of Old Town, Kurt Kennedy and his wife, Anna, of Waterboro, and Todd Kennedy of Old Town, his paternal grandmother, Lovina Kennedy, two uncles, Edmund Kennedy and his wife, Dorothy, Glenn Kennedy and his wife Peggy, all of Greenbush, two aunts, Margaret "Peggy" Grant of Old Town, and Janice Madore and her husband, Paul "Tony" of Greenbush; four nephews, Andrew Kennedy, of Bedford, NH, and Derrick, Dustin, and Dalton Kennedy, all of Waterboro, and several cousins. Eric is especially remembered by his lifelong friend, Diane Cousins Berube of Old Town. Eric is also survived by his "Boston" family, Mary Ann Warren-Hollins and her husband, Charles, and their son, Khalil, Gerry James, Allen Williams, Chris Baker, Bridget Mason and Toni Rose. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Harrison Kennedy, and Anthony and Margaret Grant as well as his aunt Loretta Rumney and his uncle Richard Grant. Visiting hours will be at Birmingham Funeral Home Sunday evening, Oct. 10 from 5-7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish, 429 Main St. Old Town on Monday, October 11 at 11 a.m. Interment will be held at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Old Town, Maine. Afterwards family and friends are invited to a light luncheon at the Parish hall. Those desiring may make donations in Eric's memory to Old Town Animal Orphanage, P.O. Box 565, Orono, ME., 04473.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Boston Globe from Oct. 9 to Oct. 8, 2010.

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Toni Rose

October 2, 2023

I have found my Eric ....I know he's always with me but its not alwats easy to teceive his message. He came to me in a vessel of a man with strong energy .... the way he related to me, up lifts me and demanded more from me in my poetry. We are transitioning greatly... I am free. Love you and miss your physical being.

Toni Rose

October 2, 2020

I carry Eric in my heart every day. I hear his voice when I'm on the phone for work, teasing me, as he use to do at the hotline. My professional voice to him was very different from my everyday chillin with friends voice.
I look to him periodically to ask was I right in my choice, what should I have done differently. I miss my friend and wish he had more time on this earth with us. ❤

Kevin Jones

February 29, 2012

I left Boston back in 2003, however, ever year or so I would call Eric to "Touch Base". Unable to reach him, I recently decided to try finding him on Facebook.

I am both shocked and saddened by the loss of such a great person and my prayers go to his family for their loss.

Chris and Libby

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

Libby, bridgette, Chris Toni and Nate

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

Junior, Libby, Nate, Toni and Chris

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

Chris, Libby, Nate and Toni

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

Bridgette, Stan, Junior, Libby, Nate and Toni

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

Chris and Bridgette

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

Stan Z, Junir and Libby

Boston Tribute dinner To Eric

October 22, 2010

So long sweet, brilliant soul......

Lisa Ladd

October 19, 2010

It's been many years since I've seen Eric. We worked together back in 1992. I remember our political debates, and how we tried to sway each other to our own philosophies.

He will never know the impact those moments had on me and how much he opened my mind, and changed my outlook.

If I could sum him up in one word, it would be "sweet". What an incredibly sweet man.....

Christopher Baker

October 16, 2010

I met Eric at the beginning of summer '09, from the day we met we were instantly close. I remember talking to you Sunday night, Sept. 19th, and making plans for the week for dinner and you telling me about all the errands you had to do the next day. I never thought in a million years that night would be the last time I'd speak to you. I miss our many debates, especially about that class I took this summer and how much you had to say about every topic it covered! :) I miss making dinner with you, shopping, everything. I especially miss sitting next to you on the sofa watching one of our favorite tv shows and the comfort that came with knowing that not a single word was necessary to describe how perfect life was at that very moment because we were next to each other- I miss that most of all. I hope you know how much I love you, and how much I miss you. You are one of a kind. I know some day I will see you again, and we can continue from where we left off.

Always yours, I love you,
Chris

Christopher Baker

October 16, 2010

I remember when I first met you in 2009, my first thought was "wow, simply amazing". I remember talking to you Sunday night, Sept. 19th, and making plans for the week for dinner and you telling me about all the errands you had to do the next day. I never thought in a million years that night would be the last time I'd speak to you. I miss our many debates, especially about that class I took this summer and how much you had to say about every topic it covered! :) I miss making dinner with you, shopping, everything. I especially miss sitting next to you on the sofa watching one of our favorite tv shows and the comfort that came with knowing that not a single word was necessary to describe how perfect life was at that very moment because we were next to each other- I miss that most of all. I hope you know how much I love you, and how much I miss you. You are one of a kind. I know some day I will see you again, and we can continue from where we left off.

Always yours, I love you,
Chris

October 15, 2010

My sincerest sympathy to the Kennedy family at this very difficult time.
Scott Joyce
Judge Baker Children's Center

My baby Makiyah was always working and playing around with Eric

October 15, 2010

The first time Eric met Angel she was with a friend.. Her friend at all the breakfast and they giggled and laughed so much he started balding more

October 15, 2010

Miss Kaylee's visit to the hotline and Eric had to hold her one day

October 15, 2010

great smile

October 15, 2010

Eric on the other

October 15, 2010

John on one side

October 15, 2010

slow day at the hotline

October 15, 2010

Mary Ann Warren-Hollins

October 13, 2010

I remember our first meeting at Cambridge College when you walked into the computer class late and you were smiling that impish smile of yours and took your seat behind me. From that day forward we were inseparable and sharing all that we had in common and debating on many issues. We agreed that we were twin souls separated at birth, because we always had that "conmnection." We would talk for hours on end and then try to figure out where the time went...where has the time gone? Who knew that Sunday, September 19th would be the last time that I would hear your voice...I think we planned on lunch that week....I will miss your wonderful stories that always had me laughing until my stomach ached - I'm really going to miss that and your sarcastic wit and charm.

You were much loved and always will be....Rest In Peace, Mon Frere and Bright Blessings

Lorianne Deeley and Tyler Oldham

October 13, 2010

Sending love and sympathy to all of Erics families and friends. How wonderful to have been so loved that so many claim you as family. It speaks volumes of what a great man Eric must have been.

Kimberley Harris

October 13, 2010

Iam at a loss and having a little bit of difficulty believing you are no longer here. Every moring I wake up hoping I will hear something from upstairs like I normally do. You have been my neighbor/friend ever since I moved to our street in Boston. The kindest and friendship you have shown me, I will forever cherish.....

Prayers and my deepest sympathy goes out to your entire family. Rest in peace Eric......

Zinah Abukhalil-Quiñonez

October 12, 2010

I am saddened by the loss of such a vibrant, funny, colorful, kind friend.
It was a great experience having you as a colleague and friend at BMC. I will for ever remember our chats, laughter, and of course the time you took to train me in the ever hectic ER.
I know how much you loved your family especially your aunt Peggy, your mom and nephews.

I pray that your family can treasure all the beautiful memories of the dynamic individual that you were and may that comfort them.
May God bless you my loving yet sarcastic kind friend!
muchos besos!
Zinah S. Abukhalil-Quiñonez

Todd Lee

October 12, 2010

With prayers and deepest sympathy to you and your family.

October 12, 2010

My deepest sympathy. Rest in peace Eric. Arielle Warren, Boston, MA

Derrick Kennedy

October 11, 2010

The hardest two weeks of my life being with you at the end and just seeing you laying there in that bed was the hardest thing that I ever had to do. I didn't think that I would make it to the funeral, but I loved you way too much to not be there. I am honored to be able to call you my uncle and I am so proud of the man that you were. I know that we didn't get to see each other that often but the time we spent together I cherished every minute of. I loved being able to meet all of the people that you shared your life with in Boston and everyone of them is now a member of my family. Right nows difficult because I have moments where I just break down and cry, but I look towards the sky and I see your smiling face looking down on me and I get this wonderful feeling inside me like your watching over me. I love you and I meant everything that I said in your ear the last night I sat with you. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU and I hope that you always look down on all of us with that amazing smile and that great laugh I will love you and honor your memory for the rest of my life! May you find eternal peace on your journey.

Love your nephew Derrick

Uncle Eric

There is No Greater Gift
Than to Have a
(Uncle, Friend, Brother, Partner, Pal, ETC.)
Like you

Toni Rose

October 11, 2010

Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Toni Rose

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Linette Laplante Dehetre

October 11, 2010

I will remember Eric fondly for his sense of humor and smile. As I read through the messages, I hope your family finds peace knowing how many lives you touched in such a positive way.

Lynn Chappelle Dyer

October 10, 2010

As a classmate of Eric's from OTHS Class of '83, I wish to send my sincere sympathy to his family. I remember Eric's awesome artistic ability and such a nice guy who was always smiling and happy-go-lucky. He will always be remembered.

Frank Spinney

October 10, 2010

I was fortunate enough to have lived one street over from the Kennedy's for most of my childhood and spent more than one day at the Kennedy household. Eric was a few years older then me and Todd a year or so younger, but somehow we still ended up as friends. I consider myself lucky and a better person because I knew Eric. Rest in peace my friend. Harry and family my prayers and best wishes are with you in this difficult time.

George & Dorothy Boucher

October 10, 2010

With our prayers and deepest sympathy.

John, Sheila, Rhonda, Jon, Susan and Theresa Lee

October 10, 2010

With our love, prayers and sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your beloved son and brother. With each passing day may God bring peace to your hearts.

Lisa Budge

October 10, 2010

I've known Eric since we were young kids because his mom and my sister worked together and we had play dates often.He will be sadly missed. I want to express my condolences to Prudy and Harold I am so sad for them because no one should have to berry a child my heart goes out to them.

Toni

October 10, 2010

In loving memory of Eric Gray-Kennedy

Eric… you were Eclectic, Rare,
Individualized and Charming man

The day you walk in the door there was just Something about you, I knew we would click Instantly I just did not know to what level.

We had our battles because you were the “Boss” and had to play that role around our Co-workers but they all knew we were Joking and that the friendship was too Strong -- to be denied.

The more we got to know one another
-- the more you referred to me
As your sister… the sister you never had. The conversation we had would make
Another man or woman blush… but
That is who we were.

Our first date (lol)… you could not help but notice you were the only white
Man reviewing a black move in the
Heart of my hood – Strand Theatre
the laughter, joking and confused
beyond believe with that movie…
“what did he say.”

We were both broke on this day
But it did not stop us from going out
to dinner and splitting a $60.00 tab…
Clowning each other on the past, the present and the future…

Eric… you were Eclectic, Rare,
Individualized and Charming man
… not a man of religion but a
man full of knowledge, willingness to help,loving and compassionate …. For all to see who wanted to see.

I will miss you and so will the people in my family you touched.

Love you

Andy Grover

October 9, 2010

I knew Eric back in the early 80's when he worked for me at the local 7-Eleven while he attended UMO. He was bright and witty and had a great sense of humor. You couldn't help but like Eric. I was saddened to hear of his passing... my condolences to Eric's family...

October 9, 2010

I have many great memories of hanging out at "The Kennedy Ranch" on weekends home from college. Eric's brother Kurt is like a brother to me, and although Eric was quite a bit younger, I got to know him and was always very fond of him. He was a very talented artist, a free spirit, and a caring friend to all who knew him. Our love and sincerest sympathies go out to Harold and Prudy and their family, and to all who loved Eric.

Bob, Annie, Sarah and Ryan Beagan

Judy (King) Parmenter

October 9, 2010

I've known Prudy, Harold and my "best friend" Peggy for almost 50 years and consider myself part of the family. Peggy and I babysat for Prudy when the boys were little and I have early memories of Eric's wicked sense of humor and his love of drawing. Until two years ago I'd not seen Eric for many years, but one bone-chilling November weekend Peggy, Eric and I went to a Boston College Football game. She and I,all bundled up sitting on those icy metal benches...Eric in torn jeans, a short leather jacket, no hat or gloves! He looked darned good but froze his butt off that day! We had fun that weekend in Boston -little did I know it would be the last time I'd see him. His family should be proud of the man he was and the impact he had on everyone he met during his short life - his memory and his spirit will live on through those of us who loved him. "In the end, it's not the years in your life, it's the life in your years." My love to you all at this very sad time.

October 9, 2010

I had the pleasure and honor of knowing Eric and Carol when I lived in Maine what seems like too many years ago.I have fond memories of those days, and remember Eric as a fun, cool, 'out-of-the-box' thinker. My sincere sympathies go out to all who knew Eric. It deeply impacts us all when someone so young and so good is taken from this earth too soon. Love to all at this time. Jackie Pisani-Burke

Kristi Buchanan

October 9, 2010

I had the pleasure of going to my senior prom with Eric. He was only a sophomore. He was such a talented, intelligent good friend and made me laugh as he did many people. He brought out the best in people and accepted people the way they were. My heart goes out to Eric's family and to those who loved him. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched.

October 9, 2010

My deepest sympathy goes out to Eric's friends and family. He will be missed by the "Hotline" community. His personality was one that was always alive I know he will live in on all of our memories.
-Melissa Tibbetts, coworker

Toni Rose

October 9, 2010

Eric was a friend from the day I started training him... he was all about straing forward and directness. As we worked together more and more we developed a friendship that went as deep as being siblings... since Eric has no sisters but a wonderful sister in law. Our talks would make anyone blush. Eric was helpful and loving... My children got to know him and my 11 year old daughter was able to visit him in the hospital. The love we felt for Eric will live and grow in our heart because his spirit lives on through all he knew.

October 8, 2010

I was incredibly blessed to share many of my formative years with Eric by my side. Eric helped me learn to play, create, dream, and laugh. He will continue to shine through in all our lives, by his presence we were all blessed. My sincere and deep sympathy to the relatives and friends who were Eric's family in recent years. Although we had infrequent contact, Eric knew I always loved him. I am sending all of you, as well as Eric's soul, my constant love.
Carol Gray-Kennedy

Andrea Gallant Gifford

October 8, 2010

Remembering you the way I knew you best from OTHS study hall in the cafeteria drawing pictures of me on the chalk board and laughing hysterically.....you were the best!! My condolences to Prudy and Harold and family.

Marcia Kelly

October 8, 2010

Harry, Prudy, Peggy, Scott, Kurt & Anna and sons, and Todd and your entire family, my deepest heartfelt sympathy to all of you. I know Eric will live on in your hearts and memories and be greatly missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and ease your pain.

Greg Chappelle

October 8, 2010

Prudy & Family
As I was leaving Old Town this morning on another work assignment a friend phoned to tell me. Sorry I'm not there but I'll be thinking of you every day.

October 8, 2010

I knew Eric as a graduate student, a fellow employee and as a an alum of our college. Eric brought a lot to our environment: his intellect, his opinions, his high level of energy and that sense that he was with us to do things his way and make his mark

From time to time, after graduating, Eric returned to the college for one reason or another. I'm afraid I had come to take his visits for granted. I was surprised and saddened to hear of his accident and his death

I was pleased to read about Eric's contributions to mental health care and child welfare, and I am sad to think of what you family members must be experiencing due to his death.

I'll miss Eric. Please accept my condolences. I hope that the gathering of Eric's family members and friends will be a comfort to everyone involved.

John Carew, Professor
Cambridge College, Cambridge MA

October 8, 2010

Our sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to Prudy, Harold and the Kennedy Family as they try to get through this most difficult time. Those of us in Boston will miss our best and dearest friend and will always hold a special place in our hearts for him and your family. He will forever be with us.
With lots of hugs, blessings and love, Mary Ann, Charles and Khalil.

October 8, 2010

My sympathy to Harold and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Thelma Doane

Mary Offutt

October 8, 2010

I hope the Gray-Kennedy family doesn't mind a stranger signing the guestbook. I feel so sad for your loss. We have sons in the Boston area (also UMaine graduates) who have been injured while bike riding, fortunately not too seriously. Eric sounds like a lovely person.

Libby

October 8, 2010

In memory of my supervisor at Judge Baker. Eric will be forever missed especially his laugh and his not so funny jokes. I will truly miss him.

October 8, 2010

Harold,Prudy & Family

Sending you hugs.
Please know that you and your family are in our prayers. Please let us know if we can do anything.

Love you,
Aunt Eva Kennedy, Brenda,Rhoda,Vickie & Lea

Anna Kennedy

October 8, 2010

As time goes things get easier, however the pain will never go away. Eric, you will never be forgotten, and you will be loved and missed always. Anna, Kurt, Derrick, Dustin, and Dalton

SHARON PAUL

October 8, 2010

My Prayers to you and you family on the loss of Eric! He was loved and will be missed very much!!!!

Mary Ann & Brian Gerry

October 8, 2010

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

October 8, 2010

Prudy, Harold and Peggy - our deepest sympathy to you and your family for your loss. May the love, and support of your famliy and friends help you through this very difficult time. Eric will always live on in your hearts and memories.
Sandy and Bernie

Jeannine Merritt Osman

October 8, 2010

Eric was a kind,caring and fun person, he will be missed by many. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go to all his family and loved ones.











e

Shirley Parsons-Worcester

October 8, 2010

My name is Shirley Parsons-Worcester and Eric was a dear friend in high school.
I remember him to be very very funny and made me laugh all the time! He brought out the best in people and could make them see what others couldn't see! I remember him fondly and will miss his great humor and smile! He will be always loved!

Debbie Mitchell

October 8, 2010

I knew Eric as a teen and had the pleasure of working with his Dad for many years at the University Police Department. Wonderful family and friends. I just adored Eric, he was a very, very special friend. My heart is saddened and I send warm thoughts to his family. Debbie Mitchell

October 8, 2010

Harry my deepest sympathy goes out to both you and your wife. Cyr Martin, Ashland Police Department.

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