Frank C. Gray

Frank C. Gray of Rockport, MA passed away peacefully on November 21, 2024, at Care One Essex Park Nursing Home, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on July 2, 1935, in Gloucester, MA, he was the eldest son of Ellis and Eleanor (Burke) Gray from North Carolina and Gloucester. Frank was predeceased by his beloved wife, Carol (Garrett), with whom he
shared 65 wonderful years. He was also predeceased by his parents and siblings, Russell, Gene, and Valerie.
Growing up in Gloucester, Frank developed a deep love for the sea, often fishing and boating with his father, a local fisherman. At 17, he enlisted in the Navy and served honorably during the Korean conflict, traveling the world and gathering countless stories about the exotic places he visited. He served on the USS Randolph and the USS Ticonderoga where he was recognized for his bravery when he saved a crewmate whose plane had overshot the deck and landed in the sea. After his service, Frank became a dedicated member of American Legion Post 98 in Rockport.
For 65 years, Rockport was Frank's cherished home, where he and Carol raised their two sons in their beautiful home overlooking the beach. Frank was a longtime employee of the US Postal Service, greeting customers with his friendly and outgoing way in Rockport and later as the assistant Postmaster in Ipswich. His passion for his community extended to his time on the Rockport Fire Department, where he was part of Ladder One and one of the town's first EMTs.
He also served as a Selectman in the 1980s, cherishing his ability to help and connect with the town he loved so much.
In his spare time, Frank loved spending time gardening with Carol, or tackling various projects around the house. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends, whether downtown, at Back Beach, on his boat, or at home. He was known for inviting people in with a friendly, "How about a cup of coffee?" He especially loved sharing stories about his Navy experiences. He was a grilling enthusiast, loving to spend cookouts with his family. He and Carol were also famous for their delicious kale soup! Frank's joyful spirit and warm personality will be deeply missed.
Frank is survived by his two sons, Keith Gray and his wife Paula of Gloucester, Michael Gray and his wife Ann of Peabody. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Evan, Bethany, Anna, Mary, and Harrison. He will be remembered fondly by his many friends and his pals at the American Legion.
Friends and family are invited to attend a visiting hour at the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester on Saturday, November 30th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. immediately followed by a service. Burial to follow at Beech Grove Cemetery, Rockport.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank's name can be made to Veterans of Foreign Wars: https://vfw.org or the Gloucester Senior Care Meals on Wheels Program:https://seniorcareinc.org/donate
For online condolences please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com