Gray Gray Ploch Obituary (1932

Naomi Gray Ploch OLD TOWN--Naomi Gray Smith Ploch, 78, died peacefully April 27, 2011 at a Bangor, ME, nursing home. She was born September 26, 1932 in Horsepasture, Virginia, a daughter of William E. Smith and Irene (Purcell) Smith. Gray graduated from Spencer Penn High School in Spencer, Virginia and received her nursing degree from the University of Virginia. In 1954, Gray wed the Rev. Dr. Donald R. Ploch, and they were happily married for 44 years until his death. She worked as a Registered Nurse in polio, tuberculosis and geriatrics facilities for 35 years with her last position as Head Nurse on an Alzheimer’s unit. After retirement, she worked as an aide for children with special needs. Gray supported her husband, Rev. Dr. Donald Ploch through many years of graduate school and many moves. They lived in eight different states before retiring to North Carolina, adding many dear friends along the way. Gray was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church. She loved square dancing, traveling, and making photo albums for her family. In addition to her parents, Gray was predeceased by her husband, Rev. Dr. Donald R. Ploch and her sister, Frances Lacy. Gray is survived by her daughter, Margie Ploch and her husband, Dexter Pratt of Reading, Mass.; two sons, David Ploch and his wife, Darlene of Old Town, ME, and Craig Ploch and his wife, Angie of Kernersville, NC; nine grandchildren Eric Pratt, Jared Pratt, Riley Ploch, Taylor Ploch, Jameson Ploch, Lauren Ploch, Cory Ploch, Adam Ploch, and Donielle Ploch; a brother, Bill Smith and his wife Sheryl of Medford, OR; a brother-in-law Richard Ploch of Tampa, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family expresses heartfelt thanks to the staff and volunteers of My Friend’s Place, Everyday Angels, Woodlands of Brewer, Beacon Hospice, and Westgate Manor for the wonderful, loving care given to Gray. A memorial service is planned for Friday, June 24 in Old Town, ME and full details will be announced at a later date. Condolences and memories may be shared at www. Birminghamfuneralhome.com. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Old Town United Methodist Church 744 Stillwater Avenue, Old Town, ME 04468