OLD TOWN – Naomi Gray Smith Ploch, 78, died peacefully April 27, 2011, at a Bangor nursing home. She was born Sept. 26, 1932, in Horsepasture, Va., a daughter of William E. Smith and Irene (Purcell) Smith.
Gray graduated from Spencer Penn High School, Spencer, Va., 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, the 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 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, the 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 and Craig Ploch and his wife, Angie, of Kernersville, N.C.; 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, Ore.; a brother-in-law, Richard Ploch of Tampa, Fla.; 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, and full details will be announced at a later date. Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Old Town United Methodist Church, 744 Stillwater Ave., Old Town, ME 04468. Condolences and memories may be shared at
www.birminghamfuneralhome.com.