William Wray

William Wray, of Durham, passed away on December 10, 2025.  He was the loving husband of Carol (James) Wray for fifty-seven years. 

Bill was born to Oscar and Catherine (Mahan) Wray in Vintondale, PA on July 15, 1942.   He was a 1960 graduate of Nanty Glo-Vintondale High School, California, PA State College and earned his Master’s Degree at Central Connecticut State College in Connecticut.

He was employed at Bethlehem Steel before moving to Connecticut in 1968 to teach at Pratt & Whitney Training School.  He then taught for twenty-five years at Connecticut School for Boys and Long Lane School, retiring in 1991.

Bill served in the United States Army in Vietnam.  He worked many hours as a poll worker in Durham and volunteered at the Durham Ambulance Corps, the Durham Fair and DMIAB.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Lavon Clyde and his brother and best friend, Thomas Wray.

Bill is survived by his wife Carol, sister Beverly Swartz (Richard), sister-in-law Donna Wray and nine much loved nephews and nieces.  His in-laws the James, Arnolds and Weavers were also an important part of his life.

Bill enjoyed the simple things in life.  He loved his family and friends, loved creating woodworking projects and helping others with their projects.  He loved animals, especially kittens, Friday night pizza, travel and snicker doodles.

Thanks to all who helped us at this difficult time-neighbors, friends, our church family, caregivers on the third floor at Wadsworth Glen and Athena Hospice.  A special thank you to Dr. Ronald Robbins who kept Bill healthy for many years.  Thank all of you for your prayers, care and support.

If you wish to honor Bill, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project or an animal rescue cause and continue to enjoy the little things in life.  A family remembrance and interment will be held in PA at a later date.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Wray, please visit our floral store.