Ray Jennings

He is survived by Elaine and Jeff Piotrowski and his children, Deborah Kokot (Michael), Raymond S. Jennings, Jr. (Lisa) and Doreen Jennings. He is also survived by his brothers, Richard Jennings (Jean), Roy Jennings (Joan) and Russell Jennings, his grandchildren Candace Maffettone, Christopher Kokot, Emma Lee Kokot, Krista Jimenez (Justin), Ariana Jennings, Anneli Jennings, Randall Jennings and Julian DeMann, and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his daughter, Diane, his son, Jeffery and his brother, Donald. Ray would also want us to mention that he is survived by his precious boy Samson, our puppy, whom he loved dearly.

Ray joined the U.S. Army on June 28, 1957, and began a career with the 536th Military Police Company. One of his many assignments included serving our country in the Vietnam War (1967-1968). He received numerous medals and citations: Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm. In 1979, after 22 years of service, Ray retired as Sergeant Major, the top enlisted grade in the Army. Following his retirement, he moved to Florida and went to work for EG&G, Inc. at the Kennedy Space Center in Security Management. He was proud to be a part of the Shuttle Program where he supported many successful launches and also the Challenger and Columbia disasters. During this time, Ray completed his Bachelor’s Degree at Barry University, Merritt Island, Florida. Due to health issues, Ray retired in 1997.

Ray enjoyed watching Jeopardy, working crossword puzzles, playing bingo, having a hot fudge sundae every once in a while and spending time with Samson, especially taking him for walks. He will forever be in our hearts.

A celebration of Ray’s life will take place at the Life Event Center at Florida Memorial Gardens, Rockledge, Florida, on Saturday, August 8th at 2:00 p.m. Contributions in his memory may be made to your favorite animal rescue charity.