John Raymond Williamson was born in Trail , BC, and passed away on September 26 at Cascade Hospice, Chilliwack, at the age of 81. Ray is survived by Gail, his devoted wife of 56 years, their children, Michelle (Shawn), Kristal (Todd), and Darren, and by his grandchildren, David (Natasha) and Matthew who all brought immeasurable joy to his life. He is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, June and Fred, niece and nephew, Amanda (Dave) and Clay (Krissy) and their children, as well as cousins, Gary (Janet), Pat, and Shirley. He was pre-deceased by his parents, John and Mildred, an infant sister, Kathleen, his nephew, Randy, parents-in-law, Fred, Elsie, and Martha, brother-in- law, Don, and his aunts and uncles.
Ray came to Chilliwack in 1961 after earning his Bachelor of Education degree. He met his wife, Gail, while on a teachers' bowling league. Ray and Gail's friendship developed as they square danced with the Rhythm Reelers, and sang in the choir at First Baptist. They married in 1962 and Ray established himself in this city where he could enjoy both the peace and beauty of the valley and the culture of Vancouver. Throughout their marriage they shared an interest in music and theatre. They both taught in School Dist 33. Ray was at Chilliwack Jr. High (latterly called Chilliwack Middle School) for his entire teaching career of 38 years.
All sorts of sports interested Ray. He curled, golfed, and played softball and basketball. Ray loved books and since he completed chemo he read about 50. He was an avid photographer and belonged to Chilliwack Camera club for a number of years. He was an active member of Chilliwack Mt. Cheam Probus Club for about 10 years serving on the Management Committee and participating in their Golf Club, Camera Club, Book Club, Walking Club, and Social events. His leadership role for 30 years in First Baptist Church was rewarding. The last 26 years found him worshipping at Fairview Baptist, Vancouver, and Broadway Church, Chilliwack. Ray was fortunate to be able to travel to Hawaii many times, to Disneyland , and to Las Vegas with his family. They went to Trail to see his mother a couple of times each year. After retirement, Ray and Gail went on cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Having lost his Dad at age 18, Ray was pleased to be in Scotland where his father had grown up.
Ray loved people and made many lifelong friends - Archie for 75 years! Other fine men were faithful "brothers" to him. They enjoyed haaving laughs and animated conversations about life and sports. Darren was his Dad's best friend. Ray would light up when his children and grandchildren were around. They meant so much to him and gave him immense joy. Ray retired 21 years ago to babysit his first grandson 4 days a week. Who was Ray? - a family man, a sportsman, a best friend, an extraordinary, ordinary man who loved God in his own quiet way.
Ray had a wonderful life. His 3 1/2 year battle with cancer was faced with courage and determination. Small goals were met one by one. He and Gail praise God for their rich life and legacy. Ray's parting words were "Thank you, Gail, for my amazing family."
Thanks to Chilliwack General Hospital staff, Ambulatory Care staff, and Fraser Health Palliative Care Team - particularly Alison See, (to name a few others - Dick, Roxanne, Betty, Karen, Ida, Jackie....) and Kae McGuinness, Dr. R. Bull (now-retired Palliative Dr.), Dean (Home Care nurse), Drs. Gordon Enns (family Dr.) and Rob Enns, GI Specialist at St Paul's Hospital (both former students). Dr. Bruce Keith (BCCA oncologist) made wise, caring decisions for Ray, as did Chilliwack's Cascade Hospice staff - Erika and Gary. Three months to live became almost 4 years of miraculous, stress-controlled, happy times with family and friends. Every day was special. Ray and Gail are grateful for all of Ray's excellent medical care.
A Celebration of Ray's Life will be held Sat., October 13 - 3:00pm at Broadway Church, 46611 Maple Ave., Chilliwack, BC.
Flowers are gratefully declined. If you would like to make a donation to the BC Cancer Foundation or to a Charity of your choice in remembrance of Ray, that would be lovely.
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