Ray Owen Oswalt, age 85, of Birmingham, AL, passed peacefully on Thursday morning, November 22, 2018 with his family by his side at home. He was second-born of six children to Samuel and Mae Oswalt of Mathiston, MS.
Ray was a graduate in civil engineering at Mississippi State College (now University). During his illustrious 40+ year career, he was involved in and later in his career was project manager for a large number of well-known projects, including bridges all over the U.S., plant refittings, and projects like the renovation of Wolf Trap National Performing Arts Center and construction of the Minute Man silo sites. Most of his career was spent at the American Bridge Division of U.S. Steel.
Ray married his devoted wife, the former Wilma Ann Evans, on May 12, 1962, and they celebrated 52 years of marriage. He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids, traveling, and attending church services.
He was predeceased by his parents; his wife; and two brothers, Brooks Oswalt and Lowell Oswalt.
Survivors include Ray's four daughters, Sharon Neff (Mark), Trina Gardiner (Joseph), Kristie Ingle (Jeffery), and Amanda Oswalt; grandchildren, Brittney Gilroy, Rachel Gilroy, Sydney Melvin, Madison Melvin, Melanie Neff, Matthew Neff, Jeremy Neff, Megan Gardiner, Jessica Gardiner, and Emily Gardiner; three great-grandchildren; two sisters, Peggy Davis (William) and Jane Norton (Eugene); one brother, Gary Oswalt (Julia).
Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on Monday, November 26, 2018 at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham, AL, immediately followed by A Celebration of Ray's Life at 12 noon at Ridout's Southern Heritage Chapel. Burial will be at Southern Heritage Cemetery, Pelham. Marty Evans, Ray's brother-in-law, will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to Blythe Creek Baptist Church, 261 Blythe Creek Road, Mathiston, MS 39752. If needed, contact the church at (662) 263-4886.
