Clifford Thayer

BENNINGTON - Clifford Ray Thayer Jr., 95, always known as Ray, died peacefully at the Vermont Veterans Home, where he had been a resident for just over a week. He had been active, living in Williamstown, and had even mowed his lawn in the past few weeks. However, his health quickly began to deteriorate after he suffered a fall, breaking his pelvis.
Ray was born in West Haven, CT, on September 26, 1926. He was the son of Clifford R. and Edna (Hinklebin) Thayer Sr. He grew up in Connecticut, where he attended local schools. Ray served his country in the US Army during World War II; he was an MP stationed in the islands of Japan following the Hiroshima nuclear bomb blast, where he monitored equipment disposal.
He had worked on the highway crew for the town of Readsboro, eventually working his way up to road foreman. He then went to work at Deerfield Glassine for many years. He ended his working career at New England Power Company.  In addition to road foreman, Ray served his community as a member of the Readsboro Fire Department and as town constable. He was a deputy with the Bennington County Sherriff’s department and a member of the Readsboro American Legion.
He enjoyed many trips traveling across the country. He could often be seen tinkering on something to fix it or make it better, even cars, something he loved to do. He was very fond of his canine companion Sheltie and missed her terribly.
Ray is survived by his children David Thayer, of Clarksburg, MA; Craig (Johanne) Thayer, of Readsboro, Kim (Nicole) Thayer, of Readsboro, and Susan (Karl Morrison) Thayer, of Averill Park, NY; companion of over 30 years, Winifred Herron, of Williamstown; former wife Priscilla (Tower) Thayer, of Readsboro; several grandchildren, great-grand- and great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brothers Robert and James Thayer and sister Ruth Alexander.
Graveside services with military honors will be held at South Hill Cemetery in Readsboro on Friday, July 29, at 2 pm with pastor Rick Gramlin officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Covey Allen & Shea Funeral Home in Wilmington. To send personal condolences to the family visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com.

The Deerfield Valley News

797 VT Route 100 North
Wilmington, VT 05363

Phone: 802-464-3388
Fax: 802-464-7255

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