He adored his parents whom were instrumental in his deep love of God and their love of the land in which they farmed and bringing their bounty to the local market.
Howard joined the United States Air Force at the age of 17. He served with honor and love of his country for 23+ years taking him to military instillations in exciting places like French Morocco, Greenland, Hawaii, Tripoli Libya, Alaska, Spain, and Germany plus a few Stateside.
But he enjoyed the simple quietness of casting out his fishing reel on the banks of a small stream and always keeping busy fixing or taking on the role of a carpenter creating something at home or for a neighbor in need.
He was wedded in Holy Matrimony June 11, 1955 to his best friend and the love of his life for 63+ years Theresa Marie Reaux. He met Theresa at her parents Mable and Claude Reaux's diner while enjoying his time off base. She married him at the tender age of 17. Howards love for her gave him the desire to convert to the religion she loved, Catholicism. Later after great thought and the desire and love for family they adopted their first child, Monica Ann followed by their first born Deborah Gail and the baby of the family Howard N. Ray Jr. Blessed with the gift of Grand children Misty Fawn Page, Bobby Ray Washington, Howard N. Ray III, Devon Julian Ray, and Andres Jose' Ray and Great Grandson Jace Christman.
Howard was preceded by 3 brothers Howard, James and Willie Clarence; 2 beloved sisters Bette Jo and Lucille as well as Grandson William, Granddaughter Tiffani Marie Washington and Great-granddaughter Angelica Ray.
He leaves to mourn his brother Dave and his beloved wife Theresa; his children Monica, Deborah & Howard. 5 Grandchildren Misty, Bobby, Howard III, Devon, Andres and Great-grandson Jace.
"For the Sake of the sorrowful Passion"
