Gerald H. Pray

Gerald H. Pray, 84, of Brownington, Vermont, passed away on January 13, 2026, at the VA Hospital in White River Junction, Vermont, surrounded by his loved ones.

Gerald was born on January 12, 1942, in Tunbridge, Vermont, to Herbert and Alice Pray. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Army from 1964 to 1966 as a communications specialist and earned recognition as an expert marksman. His military service remained a lasting source of pride and reflected a lifelong sense of duty.

Following his service, Gerald devoted more than 50 years to his work as an auto body technician. Known for his skill, precision, and strong work ethic, he spent part of his career owning and operating his own auto body business, where he took great pride in his craftsmanship and reputation.

Gerald also spent many years at Thunder Road in Barre, Vermont and Riverside Speedway in Groveton, New Hampshire, enjoying the excitement of the races and the camaraderie of the racing community.

Outside of work and racing, Gerald was an avid fisherman and hunter who especially cherished sharing those passions with his grandchildren. He also loved playing cribbage with family, enjoying both the friendly competition and the time spent together. These moments brought him great joy and created lasting memories.

Gerald is survived by his special partner, Linda Chase of Brownington; his four children, Scott Pray of Barton, Sean Pray of Barton, Shannon Mead and her husband Lee of Jay, and Jeremy Pray of Greensboro with Venessa Pray of Morgan; Linda's Children, David Chase and his wife Robin Lauzon of Newport, April Bapp and her husband George of Brownington, and Eliza Walters and her husband Melvin of Orleans; his sister, Judy Valley, and two brothers, Carl Pray and Ronnie Pray and wife Joyce; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews from both families. Those especially close to his heart include Anthony Mead, Joshua Mead, Ericka LaRose and her husband Jacob, Logan Mead. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his great-granddaughter Harper LaRose and great grandsons Alexander Walters, Sawyer Perkins and Pierce Walters.

He was predeceased by his brothers Arnold Pray, Roger Pray, and Richard Pray.

At Gerald's request, there will be no services. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date, and an inurnment will take place in the spring at Pleasant View Cemetery in Orleans.

A lifelong Vermonter, Gerald will be remembered for his devotion to family, his service to his country, his dedication to his work, and the simple pleasures he shared with those he loved.