Carol Sophia Marie Gray Obituary
Carol Sophia Marie Gray, 86, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on June 21, 2024, in Beverly after a brief illness.
Carol was born on April 29, 1938, in Rockport, Massachusetts, to Hulda and Robert Garrett. She grew up on School Street and graduated from Rockport High in 1956. In the late 1950s, Carol met Frank Gray shortly after his discharge from the Navy. They married in 1959, and in 1960 welcomed their first son, Keith. Three years later, their second son, Michael, was born. The family moved to 34 Beach Street, a home that had previously belonged to Carol's grandparents where Carol thrived as a stay-at-home wife and mother. Nothing made her happier than spending days at Back Beach with her dearest friend Louise and their boys. Later, she went on to serve the town of Rockport, which she loved, as Parking Clerk and Police Matron for many years.
Known for her quirky sense of humor and quiet demeanor, Carol found joy in life's simple pleasures. Besides her time at Back Beach, she loved reading, knitting, rearranging furniture, and cooking. She and Frank adored hosting their children and grandchildren, always asking "What can I get for you?". The answer was often Black Bean Lasagna, which never failed to bring a smile to her face. Carol was an accomplished baker too, with a Heidelberg cake or banana cream pie always waiting for you on her kitchen counter. She took great pride in her garden, where her green thumb was evident in the lush plants and flowers she tended lovingly for hours.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Hulda and Robert Garrett; her aunt Ella Robinson her stepfather, Big Emery Drolet, and her lifelong friend Louise Frithsen. She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Frank Gray; her sons, Keith and Michael; her daughters-in-law, Paula and Ann; her grandchildren, Evan, Anna, Bethany, Mary, and Harrison; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Rob and Anita Garrett, and Gardner and Darlene Garrett; and many more friends and family who will miss her dearly.
Known affectionately as "Grammy" Gray, Carol touched the lives of everyone who was lucky enough to know her. Her spirit, warmth, and kindness will live on in the memories and hearts of those who loved her.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at the American Legion Post 98, 32 Beach Street Rockport from 1 – 4pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted by Senior Care Nutrition, Senior Care, Inc. 45 Blackburn Dr. Gloucester, MA 01930.
Arrangements are by the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester.
