Willard “Laddie” Gray III

November 12, 2022

Willard “Laddie” Avery Gray III passed away on November 12, 2022, at the age of 63 in Apopka, Florida. In recent years, his battle with pancreatic cancer showed his fortitude in facing adversity and life challenges head on. Despite the struggle, Laddie stayed strong and fearless until the end.

Born on February 17, 1959, in New Haven, CT, he was the son of Willard and Elizabeth Gray. Laddie received his diploma from Hamden High School in 1977 and attended Vo-Ed Auto Mechanic training. He went on to work at Goodman Auto Repair then managed a fleet of school buses at Jack Beebe Bus Co. Laddie’s career ultimately took him to the commercial tire industry where he worked for Malerba Tire in Connecticut then a variety of others after he moved to Florida.

Laddie could often be found snowmobiling in Maine with his best friend, Wayne Tiernan or with his other close friends at a NASCAR race, golfing, or spending time outside on his Harley. Laddie will always be remembered for his animated sense of humor, kind heart, and overall enthusiasm for adventure.

Laddie leaves behind his daughter, Ashley Gray, and granddaughter, Eleni Wachter - CT. Wife, Beth Otworth-Gray and family, sister Elizabeth Avery (Guy) Finoia - CT, and cousins

Louise Callahan, Patricia (Charles) Gray, Hamilton, Owen, and Ellie Gray - CT. Bonus family includes Amanda (Casey Moore) Smith, Ashley (Giles) Platt, Jeff Otworth and grandchildren Aislynn Smith, Matthew Smith, Jonas Platt, Avalyn Platt – FL, and Erin Fowler – CT. In addition to his parents, Laddie was predeceased by stepson Dustin Lonardo.

Calling hours to celebrate the life of Willard Avery Gray III will take place in Connecticut on Saturday, January 28th from 12PM4PM at Eli’s, 2392 Whitney Avenue, Hamden. They will also be held Friday, February 17th from 4PM-8PM at the Clarcona Community Center, 5771 N. Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando FL 32818. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to Eleni Wachter’s education fund at Eleni Wachter c/o Edward Jones 1297 Main Street, Watertown CT 06795.