Salisbury — Rodney Jermiah DeGray, 89, passed away on Sept. 21, 2021, at his residence in Salisbury, surrounded by his beloved family.

He was born Feb. 9, 1932, in Middlebury, the son of George and Alfleda (Counter) DeGray.

Rodney was a graduate of Middlebury High School class of 1951. He joined the United States Army, serving in the Korean War. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Rodney was a dedicated employee for over 50 years at Middlebury College, starting as a dishwasher and working his way to chef then retiring as Dining Services Assistant Director. At his retirement in 2002, Rodney was the first Middlebury College staff member to complete 50 years of service. At that time, his service was one-quarter of the College’s 200-year lifetime. After his retirement as a full-time employee, Rodney continued as a part-time consultant to Middlebury Dining Services.

He was a man of few words but had a great love of speaking about his daughters and grandchildren. He was proud of his family, but his pride and joy were his three grandchildren. He enjoyed bowling and was an avid Boston Red Sox and New York Giants fan. He also enjoyed spending time with friends at the Middlebury Legion in the afternoons.

Survivors are his wife Beverly (Dragon) DeGray; his daughters Kim DeGray and her husband Charlie Liberty, and Tae DeGray and her husband Justin Allen; by his cherished granddaughters Brooke Warner and her partner Kayla Fitchette, and Shelby Monica.

Rodney is also survived by his siblings, Joseph DeGray, Gerry DeGray and Deniele Hayford, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Rodney was predeceased by his beloved first grandchild, and only grandson, Jeremiah Warner. Jeremiah was the light of his life, and the two shared a very special bond.

He was also predeceased by his parents and his brothers Ellsworth DeGray and George DeGray.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, Oct. 1, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. The Rev. Luke Austin will be the celebrant. Burial will follow in Prospect Cemetery in East Middlebury.

A celebration of his life will follow at the American Legion in Middlebury. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Salisbury Volunteer Fire Department. Address P.O. Box 658, East Middlebury, VT 05740.

The family would like to thank Dr. Gavin Noble, Dr. Natasha Withers, Porter Hospital Nursing Staff, and Home Health and Hospice.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Sanderson-Ducharme.◊