Words Of Praise For The Departed Grafton Supervisor

by Alex Brooks
Grafton Supervisor Ray Darling passed away on Friday, February 22. He was 68. Words of praise for Darling are being heard throughout the Town, focusing on the way he was able to combine the strength and competitiveness that made him a world champion arm wrestler with the kind and gentle demeanor that made him such a popular guy.
[private]Soon after he was elected in November of 2011 he said he believed most Town problems could be solved with common sense and friendly discussion, and that was how he led the Town during his short tenure as Supervisor.
Town Councilwoman Barbara Messenger got to know Darling well when they were campaigning together in the fall of 2011 and worked closely with him on Town government over the past year. She said, “We are laying to rest one of Grafton’s own this week. Ray was one of the politest men I ever met – a true gentleman. I remember him as a gentle giant – he was tall and strong but always soft-spoken. He was much beloved in this town, and he will be sorely missed. His passing was a big blow to our community.”
Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino commented, “I was very saddened to hear of Ray’s passing. He was an individual who took it upon himself to serve his community, and his dedication will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family and the many that could call him a friend,”
Darling owned a successful construction company. In addition to his time as Supervisor he is remembered for his work organizing the parade that was held for the Town’s Bicentennial in 2007.
Darling was elected Supervisor of Grafton in the election of November 2011, defeating the incumbent, Republican Tyler Sawyer, and took office at the beginning of 2012. He was only on the job for about four months, however, before ill health forced him to take a leave from the job to have a heart valve replaced last spring. He was back in time to run the August meeting and continued on the job until ill health forced him to miss the February meeting two weeks ago.
Town Board Member Barbara Messenger said the Board has been in communication with each other about Town business, but they do not want to act in haste to name a new Supervisor. She said they feel they should let the Town mourn the loss of its leader before moving on to the business of replacing him.
As Deputy Supervisor, Marie Claus is now the acting Supervisor until the Board decides on how to proceed. Messenger said she expects the Board will take up the matter at its regular meeting on March 18.[/private]