John "Jack" William McCray, born on November 6, 1945, in Upland, Pennsylvania,

passed away on November 8, 2024, in Tarpon Springs, Florida. A proud Vietnam

veteran of the U.S. Army, Jack served from 1966 to 1972, demonstrating his

dedication to his country during a pivotal time in history.

Jack was a graduate of Chester High School in Chester, Pennsylvania. Throughout

his life, he embraced the philosophy of being a jack of all trades, engaging in

various careers that showcased his diverse skills and resilient spirit. For a couple of

years, he worked as a cable installer with Televents of Florida. He completed

training to become a tractor trailer driver and subsequently worked with his beloved

wife, Pat, as a team truck driver, hauling refrigerated cargo across the country. In

addition to these roles, he also spent time as an insurance agent, a welder, and

even owned a laundromat, leaving an indelible mark on every endeavor he pursued.

Jack met the love of his life, Patsy "Pat" Faye (Spry) McCray, in Claymont, Delaware.

The couple married on June 17, 1974, in Elkton, Maryland, and together they

created cherished memories while traveling across the United States in their RV.

After some time, they settled in Florence, South Carolina. Following Pat's passing,

Jack made the decision to move to Florida, seeking to be closer to his son.

Patsy "Pat" Faye McCray, born on January 2, 1945, in Bradyville, TN, passed away

peacefully on January 14, 2015, in Florence, SC. A beloved figure to many, Pat was

known for her vibrant personality, diverse talents, and unwavering determination

throughout her life.

Pat's professional journey showcased her versatility and commitment to excellence. She trained as a tractor trailer driver, marking her as a pioneer in a traditionally

male-dominated field. Her services as a flight attendant and skills as a beautician

further exemplified her multi-faceted career. She approached every endeavor with a

spirit of adventure and a desire to connect with the people around her, allowing her

to make a lasting impact wherever she went.

Education was an important part of Pat's life; she graduated from Woodbury Central

High School in 1962. Her thirst for knowledge and creativity shone through her

proudest accomplishments as an amateur writer. In 1984, she participated in the

Mark Twain Essay Contest, earning recognition for her talent. She was recognized

for her essay in the NATSO Trucker's News and was a gifted artist, showcasing her

skills in both pencil drawing and oil painting.

Pat held a deep-rooted faith in God, instilled in her from a young age, which she

maintained throughout her life. She became a cherished member of the Church of

Christ and attended the Florence Church of Christ up until her passing. She and Jack

were kindred spirits in a variety of ways. They both became truck drivers and held

a variety of jobs showcasing their jack of all trades spirits. Pat is remembered not

just for her achievements but for the warmth she brought into the lives of others.

They leave behind sons, Mark Alan Shelton and Brian Keith Shelton as well as

cherished grandchildren, Zachary John Shelton and Abigail Lynn Shelton. Jack is also

survived by his sister, Lisa McCray, they are survived by numerous nieces, nephews,

cousins, and their families.

They will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege to know them,

especially family and friends. Jack was preceded by his parents, John Millard McCray

and Angelene Trudell (Ruark) McCray, and his sister Sheila Locke. Pat was

preceded by her parents, Alfred Ulysses and Lela Eva (Espy) Spry, brothers, Ellis

(Sammie) Spry, Alden (Cora) Spry, Johnnie (Wanda Lee) Spry, and Boyd (Patricia)

Spry, she is also preceded by a sister, Laura (Herschel) Trail.

A graveside service to honor Jack and Pat's lives and lay them to rest together will be

held on June 21, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM at Midway Church of Christ Cemetery in

Bradyville, Tennessee. Jeff Spry will officiate. The US Army Honor Guard will be in

attendance to present funeral honors for Jack. Jack and Pat's legacy of hard work,

resilience, and love for their family will continue to inspire those who loved him. Share

memories and condolences at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral

Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a

story.