Paul F. Gridley, Jr.

Paul F. Gridley, Jr., 76, of Auburndale, Florida and formerly of Cobleskill, New York, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, August 3, 2025 with his loving family by his side.

He was born on March 25, 1949 in Cobleskill, New York and was the son of the late, Paul F. Gridley, Sr. and Jacqueline (Myers) Gridley. Paul was raised on his parent’s farm on Meyers Road in Howe’s Caves, New York, where he was fortunate enough to create fond memories alongside his brother, Gary, as well as sharing in the farm life with his two sons, Robert and Steven. He attended Cobleskill High School and graduated with the Class of 1967. Shortly after graduation, Paul was drafted to the United States Army. He was the last person to be drafted from Schoharie County. After dutifully serving his country, Paul received an honorable discharge.

Upon his return from the war, he attended SUNY Cobleskill where he earned an Associate’s of Applied Science. Paul worked at several places before his permanent employment with SUNY Cobleskill where he worked in the agricultural engineering department and the college’s farm until his retirement with over 25 years of service.

After retirement, Paul and his life partner of 30 years, Karen Butler, moved to Auburndale, FL where he enjoyed morning golf cart rides, coffee with neighbors, warm weather, visits from his New York and North Carolina families, ensuring all local wild life was accounted for and spending time with his late pup, Zelda. 

He is survived by his companion, Karen Butler of Auburndale, FL; two sons, Robert Gridley and his wife, Noelle of Dolgeville, NY and Steven Gridley and his wife, Alison of Roseboom, NY ; two step-children, Jody Butler of FL and Christina Butler of NC; a daughter-in-law, Melissa Gridley of Cooperstown, NY; seven grandchildren; Jonathan, Oliver, Adalynn, Carter, Asher, Madison, and Ethan; a brother, Gary Gridley of Cobleskill, NY; The Gridley Family cousins; and countless friends who felt like family. 

Paul was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Jacqueline Gridley and his canine companion, Zelda.

In keeping with family wishes, there will be a private graveside service at Prospect Cemetery in Howe’s Caves, New York where he will be laid to rest with his parents.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to American Cancer Society or to your local animal shelter in memory of Paul.

Local arrangements are with locally owned and family operated, Miller-Plonka Funeral Home, 30 Wolf Street, Dolgeville, New York 13329, Cremations and Funerals.

To leave a message of sympathy for Paul’s family, please visit www.millerplonkafuneralhome.com and sign the tribute wall or leave a photo or memory for his online memory book.

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