CHELSEA – Rodney Grady (Zeke to many) passed away May 9, 2023, at his home in Chelsea after a lengthy illness with cancer.

He was born in Gardiner on August 10, 1940, the son of Arthur and June (Harris) Grady. Rodney “Zeke” graduated in 1958 from Gardiner High School.

Rodney loved to tease and always had a joke and a laugh. After a few odd jobs, he started the career he loved the most. Where he became a top trainer or near the top at every Standard Bred Harness Horse Racetrack he went to, in and out of New England. Rodney was very well known for taking young drivers and grooms under his wing and making them much sought after trainers and very successful catch drivers. Rodney (Uncle Zeke’s) love and knowledge of the horses has been passed onto his nephew, Hunter, whom he was very proud of.

Rodney was predeceased by his parents June and Arthur Grady; three sisters, Marvina Davis of Richmond, Geraldine (Gerrie) Merrill of Chelsea, and Penny Perry of Addison.

Rodney is survived by his wife of 58 years Nettie; son and daughter-in-law Bill and Anne Grady of Florida, daughter Pam Grady (Lill) of Florida; granddaughter Brandi and great grandson Jaydyn (JJ) of Pittston; sister Kay Myers of Wiscasset and brother and sister-in-law Everett and Sandra Reynolds of Vassalboro. Also, many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at the American Legion Post 4 on 46 Griffin Street Gardiner Maine on Thursday May 18, 2023 between the hours of 4-8 p.m.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

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