Raymond Gordon Almond Jr.

Mr. Raymond Gordon Almond, Jr., age 93, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee. Born on June 16, 1931, in Memphis. Ray lived a long and vibrant life marked by dedication to family, a love for the outdoors, and a spirited sense of humor.

A graduate of Messick High School, Ray pursued higher education at Auburn University, where he earned an engineering degree. His loyalty to Auburn remained steadfast throughout his life as a proud War Eagle fan. Ray began his professional career at Allen & Hoshall in Memphis before co-founding Almond, Campbell and Rhea, where his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to excellence made a lasting impact on the local engineering community.

Ray’s passions extended far beyond his career. A lifelong golfer, he began as a caddy and continued playing well into his later years. He especially cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren during “Camp Happiness,” where golf became a source of joy and connection. Ray also loved horseback riding and working on his property, where he cared for his horses and beloved Irish Setters. His first horse, Miss Kitty, named after the Gunsmoke character, reflected his playful nature. Rarely seen without cowboy boots and a cigar, Ray embraced the western lifestyle with flair.

Affectionately known as “Pappy,” Ray was a natural prankster whose infectious laughter and spirited presence brought warmth to every gathering.

He is remembered with love by his wife, Joy Almond; children Rita Shelby (Alvin), Rhonda Dawkins (Bill), Rusty Almond, and Rise' Meguiar; grandchildren Jason Shelby (Amy), Lizzie Saenger (Jason), Meredith Beegle (Brandon), Ricky Almond (Angel), and Amy Johnson (Chris); great-grandchildren Georgia Shelby, Liza and Edie Saenger, Will Thomason, Andrew and Elliott Johnson; and Joy’s children Nancy Sagehorn (Steve), Allison Harber(Bruce), and Ryan Sanders (Kelly); and 7 step grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Irene Almond; his brother, Richard Almond; and his son-in-law, Mike Meguiar.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The event will be western/cowboy themed in honor of Pappy’s signature style.

Ray’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Ray Almond may be made to Baptist Reynolds Hospice House, 1520 W Poplar Ave, Collierville, TN 38017.