MALDEN--Richard Winton McCray, 76 years old, a longtime resident of Malden and Lowell, Massachusetts, died unexpectedly, Thursday, February 16th, while enjoying a walk on a beautiful spring-like morning.
He was born in Ithaca, NY, on March 8, 1929, the son of the late Richard and Martha (Winton) McCray. He was raised in Arlington, and attended Arlington High School.
Mr. McCray was a veteran of the Korean War. He had been employed as a Chief Chemist at National Poly Chemicals in Wilmington, and also served as a union official. He was an entrepreneur who owned and operated several businesses in Lowell and Malden, most recently, Dick's Signs. Since his retirement, Mr. McCray continued to find ways to keep busy with several craft endeavors, taking long walks and spending time with his family. Mr. McCray was an eternal optimist.
He was formerly married to Catherine (Luskin) McCray with whom he raised 4 children.
He is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law: Richard J. McCray, of Lowell; and David W. and Rita McCray of Merrimack, NH; a daughter and son-in-law: Martha and Christopher Bradford of Tolland, CT; two grandsons, Christopher and Matthew Bradford of Tolland CT, a step-granddaughter, Erin St. Jean of Sanford, ME; a step-grandson, David Hogan of Broomfield, CO; also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Mr. McCray was the father of the late Patricia Ann McCray, who died in 1977.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 PM on Monday, February 20th at the MAHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 187 Nesmith St. (Rte. 38), Lowell. A Private Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Tewksbury, MA.