Obituary: Clarinda M. (Skelton) Gray

Clarinda “Tin” Skelton‑Gray, 94, remembered for a life of community and craft

Clarinda M. Skelton‑Gray, a lifelong resident of Brunswick who passed away on Aug. 31, 2026, was a woman whose everyday habits and community ties left a lasting imprint on the town. The 94‑year‑old was born in Bowdoin on May 1, 1932, to Willis L. and Mona (Taylor) Skelton, and grew up as the last surviving child of ten siblings.

Early life and education

Clarinda’s schooling began in a one‑room schoolhouse in Bowdoin. She later attended and graduated from Brunswick High School, where she developed the work ethic that would guide her long career in retail. The details of her work history remain largely private, but friends recall her as a steady presence in local shops, always ready to help customers and share a smile.

Family and relationships

In August 1954, Clarinda married Clifford Gray. The marriage ended in divorce some time later, after which she remained a single parent and devoted her energies to her community. Her family was extensive: she was survived by a large group of nieces and nephews, and by a “special family” she affectionately called “Tin.” She was also preceded by her parents and nine siblings—Alma O’Neil, Thurman, Lloyd, Pearl Roberts, Carmalene Lancaster, Forrest, Eunice Cirer, Shirley Bickford, and Leon.

Community involvement

Clarinda was an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star, a fraternal organization that emphasizes service and fellowship. She also played on a local bowling team, where the camaraderie forged on the lanes translated into lifelong friendships that endured long after the team disbanded. Her social calendar was punctuated by regular visits to local eateries—seafood restaurants and “bean suppers” were staples—and by outdoor pursuits that reflected her agrarian upbringing. She enjoyed blueberry picking, harvesting strawberries and raspberries, and foraging fiddleheads from the nearby woods.

Passions and hobbies

Sports were a constant in Clarinda’s life. She was a devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox, rarely missing a televised game. Her creativity extended to home‑crafted items: she was especially known for crocheting “scrubbies,” a practical and colorful touch in her household. She also cultivated a talent for preserving seasonal produce through canning, ensuring that her family could enjoy the bounty of the harvest long after the fields were harvested.

Funeral and memorial services

The Brackett Funeral Home in Brunswick will host a visitation from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, at 29 Federal Street. A funeral service will follow immediately at 10 a.m., with a committal ceremony scheduled for the West Bowdoin Cemetery in Bowdoin. Family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects. Memorials and condolences may be shared online at www.brackettfh.com.

Legacy

Clarinda’s life was defined by a blend of steady work, community service, and a love of simple pleasures—whether it was a well‑stitched scrubby, a freshly canned jar of fruit, or a shared bowl of beans at a local supper. Her passing leaves a gap in Brunswick’s social fabric, but the stories of her kindness, her skillful hands, and the friendships she forged will continue to echo through the town’s memories.

For those wishing to share memories or send condolences, visit the Brackett Funeral Home website or contact the funeral home directly.