Warner C. McCray

Warner “Pete” McCray, born March 10, 1939, in Corry, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 4, 2026, at the age of 87. The youngest child of Clyde and Dorothy McCray, Pete grew up in the Corry and Columbus areas alongside his four sisters — Betty, Roberta, Virginia, and Mary — all of whom preceded him in death, as did his parents.

Pete spent his entire career at the General Electric plant in Lawrence Park. He graduated from the GE Machinist Apprentice Program and later continued his education through the Manufacturing Studies Program. Over the years, he contributed to numerous projects involving machine tools and machining centers, including the installation of a Flexible Machining System in Building 2 for traction motor frames that automated the entire machining process.

In 1961, Pete married Sally Bell, and in 1984 he married Charlene Roach. He was deeply committed to family and community, helping organize the McCray family reunion and assisting with his high school reunions for many years. Pete loved learning new skills and took pride in working with his hands. He built a home, garage, and barn on Raymond Mills Road with the help of Sally and their children, and after retiring from GE, he built another home and a machinery building in Sherman, New York, where he lived for the remainder of his life. Woodworking became one of his favorite pursuits, and many family members and friends cherish the Adirondack chairs, tables, and other pieces he crafted.

Pete also had a lifelong love of dogs, especially boxers. Over the years, he raised several, each one becoming a loyal companion and a steady presence in his daily routines. His boxers followed him from workshop to yard, rode along on errands, and greeted family with their unmistakable enthusiasm. The bond he shared with his dogs brought him comfort, laughter, and companionship throughout his life.

Pete will be remembered for his steady nature, his willingness to tackle any project, and the practical knowledge he generously shared with others.

He is survived by his three children — Debra O’Day, Mike (Sara) McCray, and Tom (Becky) McCray — and two grandchildren, Sean McCray (Jordane) and Heather McCray. He is further survived by two great grandchildren.

The family would like to give sincere thanks to the staff at the Senior Living Center at LECOM in Millcreek for the loving care they provided for the last two years.

To honor Pete’s wishes there will be no calling hours or service at this time. Private arrangements are entrusted to Burton Quinn-Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, West Ridge, 3801 W. 26th St., Erie.

He would be honored to have memorials in his name to Findley Lake Fire Dept, 10372 Main St , Findley Lake, NY 14736 or to the ANNA Shelter, 1555 E. 10th St., Erie, PA 16511.

To send condolences, please visit www.burtonquinnscott.com