James Jim Roberts Ray

RAY, James Roberts, 83, died May 1, 2011. He was predeceased by his mother, father and stepfather, Ellouise Cavender Ray Simmons, Chester Earl Ray and Romeo Simmons, respectively; brother, Chester Earl Ray Jr.; mother-in-law, Catherine Couston Tissot; sons, John Andrew Ray and James Roberts Ray Jr. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Tissot Ray; children, Sarah Ray Pickard (Shawn), Michael Alexander Ray (Phyllis), Jennie Ray Hart (Roger); daughter-in-law, Gayle Marie Volk; nephew and niece, Chester Earl Ray III (Jeri) and Kristina Ray. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Jeremy Alexander, Stephanie Diane, Emily Margaret and Christopher Garth Ray. He is also survived by three step grandchildren, Roger O. Hart Jr. (Lisa), Peggy Hart Jones (Gene), Mary Hart Hood (Kyle), and their families.

Jim was born in Charleston, West Virginia on July 21, 1927. James became a Christian in his preteen years, which guided his decisions throughout his life. James was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy on August 9, 1946. He was graduated from Alderson Broaddus College with a B.A. in Medical Technology and from West Virginia University with a B.A. in Pre-Medicine. He utilized his gift of gregarity and his vast technical knowledge throughout his professional sales career. Jim was also a Master Mason 32 Scottish Rite of Freemasonry S.J., USA. As a result of his thirst for knowledge, Jim could elaborate on any subject. His fondest memories included the family's annual trek back to the mountains of West Virginia to enjoy nearly every state park. He and Catherine were active members of the International Folk Dance Club of Richmond, spending nearly every Friday night dancing and teaching. They also enjoyed many Bannerman Family Folk Dance Camps.

Jim had a tremendous love of Scouting. This love began during his teens and continued throughout his life. His proudest accomplishments included the scouts under his tutelage that obtained the rank of Eagle and his receipt of the highest distinguished service award in Scouting, the Silver Beaver Award. Jim was a trusted and loyal member of both, Reveille and Trinity United Methodist Churches. He was a committed participant of the Reveille Monday Morning Men's Prayer Breakfast, the Christian Fellowship Class and the choir. In most recent years, he joined his family at Trinity participating in the Bill McClure Bible Study Class, Tuesday morning Bible Study, the Alpha Program and the choir. He pursued his devotion to both Scouting and Christian outreach through BSA Troop 442.

The family wishes to thank the Communities of Corotoman By The Bay, where Jim served on the Board and of Lakewood Manor. We would also like to thank the many friends of our family who have been a great support to Jim during his times of need. Visitation will be held at the Parham Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Road, Tuesday, May 3, 4 to 6 p.m. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, 903 Forest Ave., at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 4. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to one of the following: Trinity United Methodist Church (Missions), 903 Forest Ave., Richmond, Va. 23229, or the Capitol District Heart of Virginia Council, B.S.A. 4015 Fitzhugh Ave.,Richmond, Va. 23230. Online condolences at woodyfuneralhomeparham.com.