Leo R. Gravel, Jr.

Leo (Charlie) R. Gravel, Jr., 85, of North Grafton, passed away with his wife by his side, in the comfort of his home, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

Leo is survived by the love of his life, devoted, best friend and wife of sixty-three years, Joyce E. (Henry) Gravel; their four beautiful daughters, Karyn Stacy and her husband Ronald of Sutton, Gayle Donato and her husband Philip of Milford, Leanne Lacasse and her husband David of Sutton, and Kristine Gravel and her husband Richard Fay of Sutton. Leo is also survived by his brother, William “Bill” Gravel of Alabama; his sisters, Marcia Pousland of Millbury, and Louise Perks and her husband Richard of Stratham, NH; nine grandchildren, James and his wife Katie, Kyle and his wife Jenna, Ryan and his wife Sarah, Joseph L. and his wife Britt, Tyler and his partner Gracie, Joseph D and his partner Lauren, Michelle and her partner Mike, Christian and his wife Rachel, and Thomas; seven great grandchildren, Evie, Morgan, Emmy, Noah, Caden, Elijah, and Vienna; with another two on the way; many nieces and nephews. Leo was born in Worcester, son of the late, Leo R. and Adelaide (Lewis) Gravel. He grew up in Millbury and graduated with the Class of 1958 from Millbury High School. He later graduated from Worcester State College in 1962, where he received his bachelor’s degree. He graduated from Fitchburg State College with his master’s degree in teaching.

Leo was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church and held his faith as a central tenant to his life. He served as an altar boy in his youth and remained active in his parish community through the Saint Vincent de Paul Society and his service on other parish committees. In his youth, he spent many years in Boy Scout Troop 154 and later became an assistant troop leader.

Mr. Gravel, as he is known to thousands of students, held the highest principles of honesty and integrity. He started his forty-eight-year teaching profession at Chandler Street Junior High School, later teaching at Marian High School. Mr. Gravel’s longest tenure was as a mathematics teacher at Saint Peter Marian Central Catholic Jr. and Sr. High School, where he made many lasting impressions on his students, who held him in the highest regard. He was proud to continue his relationships with students after graduation and was a fixture at the many high school reunions throughout the years. He was instrumental in leading efforts for his fellow teachers; he was a Math department chair for many years and led the effort in unionizing the teachers’ association. He mentored many college students who endeavored to become prospective math teachers.

Leo found great love in his family and was blessed to share many wonderful years of marriage with Joyce. He was so proud of his four daughters and grandchildren. He commented that his grandchildren were like an ice cream sundae and great grandchildren were the cherries on the top.

Leo enjoyed many sporting activities, including golfing with his grandsons and friends, rooting for the New York Giants, coaching girls’ high school basketball at Marian High School and serving as a referee in the girls’ basketball league.

Leo will be remembered as a loving, devoted husband, great father, grandfather, and great grandfather. The greatest thing he will be remembered for is his love for others and how he dedicated his life to making life better for all those around him.

Calling Hours for Leo will be on Monday, March 2nd, from 4 pm until 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral will be on Tuesday, March 3rd with a procession departing the funeral home at 9:40 am enroute to a 10 am Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1290 Grafton Street, Worcester. Interment will follow at Saint Philip’s Cemetery, Grafton.

Flowers may be sent or donations in his name may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Church.