John Ray Love

John Ray Love, 79, of Arlington, Virginia passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. John, fondly known as “Ray” back home, was born on March 5, 1942 in Andalusia, Alabama. He was the fourth of five siblings born to Judge Clyde M. Love Sr. and Sunday school teacher, Roxie Mae Knox Love. He graduated from Covington County High School in Florala, Alabama in 1960, attended Auburn University and served in the U.S. Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In 1966, John moved to Washington, DC to pursue a career in the Federal Government. While in DC, he met the love of his life, Carmen Teresa Vazquez, affectionately known as “Terry” of San Juan, Puerto Rico. He married her on May 7, 1971 and were inseparable for 50+ years. John worked for the Department of Commerce, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Facilities Management for 37 years, retiring in August 2003. Colleagues often referred to him as "Elvis" for his spot- on impersonations. He was a fan to say the least. Eventually making it to Graceland, the Home of Elvis Presley, with his son. A dream come true. Mr. Love was a family man. He loved football and sports. He brought light and love to everyone, including the neighborhood kids who saw him as a “father figure.” With humor, a smile and a southern drawl. Living his motto of: “Let the Good Times Roll.” John and his wife, Terry, were soulmates. That is why it was no surprise when Terry passed away on March 23, 2021, that John followed her 15 days later. To reunite with his true love. John is survived by his two children: Cristina Teresa Love Lucas, of Arlington and Johnny Rafael Love of Charlottesville. He is also survived by six grandchildren, his sister Mildred Love, of Holtville AL and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Mr. Love was predeceased by his wife, Carmen Teresa Love and three brothers, Glen Love, of Hayesville, NC, Jerry Love, of Aiken, SC, and Clyde M. Love, Jr., of Florala, AL. A chapel service officiated by Fr. Kevin Dansereau from Saint Thomas More will be held on Thursday, April 22, 2021 from 9:00-10AM at Columbia Gardens Cemetery, 3411 Arlington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201. A graveside service with military honors will follow from 10-10:30 AM with a light breakfast reception onsite, to which all our welcome. Flowers can be arranged via the link next to listed services below.