Stephen L. Gray

BUXTON - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen L. Gray on Nov. 23, 2018, surrounded by his loving family after his courageous battle with cancer.

Stephen was born in Bangor on Feb. 27, 1949, son of Frank Emery Gray and Doris Ann (Davis) Gray.

After graduating from Old Town High School in 1968 and earning his Associates Degree from Eastern Maine Technical Institute in 1970, he began work at Bancroft & Martin. In 1983 he moved on to and retired from Bath Iron Works after 32 years of employment. His job at BIW afforded him the opportunity to travel many places for ship checks including California, Washington state, Bermuda and Hawaii, his wife, Gail, joining him when possible.

Above all Stephen loved his family. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, wood working, camping, and hanging with his buddies at "the garage". The hunting cabin located in Washington County, where he hunted and ice fished with this father, family members and friends was his favorite "piece of heaven". Anxious to share it with their children while they were young he and Gail took them, the family dog and dunnage on the three mile canoe ride and one + mile hike into camp - one of his favorite memories!

Stephen was predeceased by his father, Frank Emery Gray. He is survived by his mother, Doris Ann (Davis) Gray of Milford; high school sweetheart and wife of 47 years, Gail (Hildreth) Gray, daughter, Nicole (Gray) Hopkins and granddaughter, Meadow Fortier; son Jason Gray and his partner, Mercedes Thayer and her daughter, Elloise St. Germaine and granddaughter Esme all of Buxton; brothers, Brian Frank Gray and his wife Betty Gray of Bucksport, and Darrell Emery Gray of Milford; beloved nieces and nephews; and sisters and brother-in-laws.

With a blue eyed twinkle he inherited from his dad and good natured quick wit, he never passed on an opportunity for good natured banter. We are certain that is no exception for those he loved who passed on and were there to greet him as arrived! Stephen dearly loved his family and friends and will be missed by all.

Peace be with you my love, Gail.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., followed by a time of sharing at 1 p.m. at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service Chapel, 498 Long Plains Rd. (Rt. 22) in Buxton. Online condolence messages can be submitted at the funeral home website, www.mainefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, Stephen's family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the:

Salvation Army

297 Cumberland Ave.

Portland, ME 04104