David R Elliott

full life and a three year bout with cancer. Ray was born the son of

John David and Lura Annie Tarlton Elliott. He is survived by his

wife and great helpmate Ruth, to whom he was married fifty two

wonderful years; their children Eric, Elisa, and Amy; eldest daughter

Regina Ray (Gina) Strumpf; sister Hazel Doster; children in laws

Laura, Nelson, and Alan; eleven grandchildren and one

great grandchild.

A 1949 graduate of Charlotte Tech High School, Ray grew up with his

four older sisters. Velma, Helen, and Clyde Annie would later

predecease him. In 1950 Ray went to work for "Esso," Standard Oil

Company of New Jersey, but within the year the Korean War led him to

serve in the US Army from 1950 53. Ray returned to employment with

Esso (now known as "Exxon") for the next thirty three years, covering

many assignments in many locations in jobs ranging from gasoline

truck driver to top sales positions in petreoleum marketing. He was a

Lions Club president and a Master Mason and member of First United

Methodist Church in Gastonia. An avid Master Gardener, he loved

spending time outdoors. He was a great card player, both the

old fashioned kind and by computer. He loved the game of golf. He

loved words, both in public speaking and sales, and enough to instill

in his kids an appreciation of poetry as bedtime reading. He worked

hard at and took great joy in watching and supporting his children

and grandchildren grow and develop. He and his family would to like

to thank his doctors, caregivers, family and friends who supported

him with kindness and patience in the time of his extended illness.

Ray asked that memorials be made in his name to Gaston Hospice, the

American Cancer Society, or your favorite garden spot of beauty. The

family will receive friends at 1pm just prior to the funeral at 2pm

at McEwen Funeral Home at Sharon Memorial Park in Charlotte on

Wednesday, November 9. Burial at Sharon Memorial Park will be

immediately after the service.

Condolences at www.McEwenfs.com