Francis "Poppy" Gray

With heavy hearts, the family of Francis Alfred Gray announces his passing, which occurred on October 28, 2025, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Saint John, NB, on June 4, 1945, he was the son of the late Howard and Kathleen (Cyr) Gray.

Francis, also known as Poppy, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend. He was a trickster, full of laughter and a boy at heart. He loved deeply and gave freely, touching the lives of everyone who knew him.

He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—fishing, gardening, and in earlier years, hunting. Music brought him joy, especially country and classic rock. Francis and his late wife Carol fulfilled their dream of living on First Lake, where he treasured time spent kayaking and enjoying the beauty of nature.

After Carol’s passing 12 years ago, Francis became the pillar of strength for his daughters. He was the glue that held the family together and took great pride in being there for “his girls” in every way.

 Francis was a very proud member of local 1386 for almost 55 years, working both as a carpenter and a scaffolder. Many family members have evidence of his carpentry in their homes.

Francis will be forever loved and remembered by his daughters: Cindy Gunn (Tommy), Carolyn Cook (Harold), and Candyce Tvedt (Harald); his cherished grandchildren: Jennifer, Aimee (Steven), Donnie, Adam (Megan), Andrew, Evan, and Alex; and his great-grandchildren: Bailey, Austin, Shelby, Gavin, Grace, Willow, and Ellie. He will also be missed by his best 4-legged pal, Cooper.

He is survived by his brother Wayne Gray; sisters Mary Gray, Cathy Gray, Pamela Duguay (Abbie), and Diane Anderson (Larry); son-in-law Brian LeBlanc; many nieces and nephews, and the McGrath family, who were family to him, will also deeply mourn his passing.

In addition to his parents, Francis was predeceased by his beloved wife Carol Gray; daughter Christine LeBlanc; brothers Gary, Billy, Edward, and Paul Gray; sister Phyllis Gray; and sister-in-law Dorothea Heinzman.

Resting at Fundy Funeral Home on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. A Celebration of Francis’ Life will be held from the Fundy Chapel on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Ocean View Memorial Gardens.

For those who wish, donations in Francis’ memory may be made to a charity of their choice. 

We will miss you Dad/ Grandpa/ Grandpapa