Raymond Hunt Wilhelm Jr.

Raymond Hunt Wilhelm, 95, went home to be with the LORD on Sunday, February 12, after a long life marked by authenticity, dependability, and consistency while surrounded by family. His life was a perfect example of a faithful, loving husband, father, and friend. He will be deeply missed.

Born on November 6, 1921 in Bethlehem, PA., Ray’s family relocated to Arlington, MA. When he was 4. Ray grew up loving baseball and the Boston Red Sox in particular. He graduated from Arlington High School in 1939. Ray tried out for the old Boston Braves with a dream of one day playing professional baseball. His dream was interrupted when Japan ruthlessly bombed Pearl Harbor. He enlisted in the army the day after. He spent time at Fort Lee and was eventually attached to General Patton’s 3rd army as it marched through Europe to victory. Returning to the states in 1946, Ray attended Brandeis University and began his career working for the State Street Bank and Trust Company in Boston.

In 1947, Ray married his high school sweetheart, Judith Coleman. The couple had three children, Sherry, Peter, and Mark and settled in the historic town of Lexington. The two spent 66 years together before Judy went to heaven in 2014.

A committed Christian, Ray was always involved in his church. He was a deacon in three different churches, working in various ministries, and was supremely loved by his fellow parishioners. Upon retirement, Ray and Judy moved to Sarasota where his older sister, Jean, resided. He instantly found a church and became involved in a pastoral care ministry, going to the hospital 3-4 times a week, often at 5:00 am, to pray with members who were having surgeries (or family members). Though not a member of the clergy, Ray visited hospitals so much, he had his own parking spot at Sarasota Memorial.

Ray is survived by his son Mark, seven grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 6:30pm on Thursday, February 16, 2017 at the funeral home with Rev. John Montgomery officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior the service. Interment will follow on Friday with military honors at Riverside Memorial Park.