John F. Gray Sr.

John F. Gray Sr., 69, of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at UMass-Memorial Medical Center – University Campus, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Worcester, John was the son of the late Robert F. and Florence Mae (Remillard) Gray. A lifelong resident of the city, he graduated from Burncoat High School, Class of 1975.

A devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend, John leaves behind three sons: John F. Gray Jr. and his wife Alexandria of Worcester; Steven Rogers of West Boylston; and Matthew Rogers and his wife Kelly of Holden; two granddaughters Olivia and Madison Rogers. He is also survived by his siblings: Maureen Dunker and her husband Kenneth of Naples, Maine; Barbarann Girouard and her husband James of Naples, Maine; Juliann Hamilton of Charlton; and Michael Gray of Worcester. John leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and countless friends who will miss him dearly.

John shared a special, lifelong bond with his beloved cousin Linda Daly and her family, including her late husband John Daly, their daughter Jennifer, and son Sean with his wife Cheryl and their children Maegan and Matthew, as well as their granddaughter Evie Jean, daughter of Matthew. The Daly family held a treasured place in John's heart, and he cherished the many memories made together over the years.

A dedicated and hard-working entrepreneur, John spent over two decades owning and operating several Mobil gas stations. He also built businesses in real estate, towing and heavy transportation, landscaping, and more - often working alongside his three sons. In recent years, he proudly served as a subcontractor for the City of Worcester, providing seasonal services such as snow plowing, leaf hauling, and street cleaning with his tri-axle dump truck.

Beyond work, John found joy at the beach and cherished vacations at the family home in West Dennis with his former wife Linda and their children. He especially loved winter getaways to Sarasota, Florida with his sisters and cousin Linda Daly, as well as vacation trips and Sunday dinners with the Daly family.

John will be most remembered for his handsome smile, outgoing personality, strong work ethic, unwavering dedication to his family, especially his former wife Linda, and his generous spirit. He was never shy about offering a strong opinion - but always had a helping hand for anyone in need.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, September 28, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, September 29, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove St., Worcester. Burial will follow at St. John's Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association of Merrifield, VA.