James W. Cray

James W. Cray, 78, of 564 Pine Street Meadville, passed away Friday, October 16th, at home.

James was born in Beaver Falls, PA on September 11, 1937, a son of the late Ann Himes.

James retired as a conductor from the former Conrail Railroad after 41 years of service to the railroad industry. Over the years he had worked as an brakeman or conductor for the former Bessemer ,Erie and Erie Lackawana Railroads. Graduating from the former Conneautville High School in 1956, he also had served in the National Guards Reserves. He was an active member of the Lake Shore Railroad Society and a former member of the Meadville Club. His life's passion was anything that dealt with the railroad, starting at a young age he had a fascination with trains, railroads and began collecting memorabilia. Over the years he acquired an extensive collection of trains, signs, parts and cars. If he was not working or collecting he could be found painting with water colors, paintings of trains. James also found great pleasure in caring for his cats.

James is survived by a daughter Anna Krank of Gloucester, VA two granddaughters Bridgette Cornman and Kristina Krank, a sister Sandra Brown and her husband James of Conneautville, a brother Tom Saunders of Meadville, two nieces Patricia Cobb of Linesville, Kimberly Zappia and her husband Dan of Conneautville, a nephew Michael Brown and his wife Sharon of Columbus, OH, four great nephews Tyler Cobb, Logan Cobb, Landon Brown and Dylan Kaczmorski.

Services will be private and held at the convenience of family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to ANNA Shelter 1555 E. 10th St. Erie, PA 16511 or Hospice of Crawford County 464 Pine St. Meadville, PA 16335.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 404 Chestnut Street, Meadville, PA 16335

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com