William Raymond Bosley, Jr.

He was the beloved husband of Ruth “Anita” Knott-Bosley for 70 years; cherished father of Sandra Bosley-Betsill and her husband John Betsill, Cheryl Bosley-Brown (Robert Brown (deceased), and Laurie Bosley-Farkas and her husband Kenneth Farkas; loving “Poppy” to Caitlin Brown (Dan Neutzel), Kirstin Betsill Donnelly (Joseph), Leanne “Maggie” Brown (deceased) (Steven Brennan), Maura Brown (Bradley Mitchell), Garrett Betsill (Julia), Chloe Farkas Riley (Sean), Marissa Betsill Eickhoff (Erik), and Keeley Farkas (Evan Bussells). He was also a proud great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren.

Ray was the loving son of William “Jack” Raymond Bosley, Sr. and Alice Garrett Bosley Flayhart (both deceased), the dear brother of Marion Bosley Whiteford and her husband Charles Whiteford (both deceased), and loved by great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and countless friends.

A retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Ray last held the rank of Colonel in the Marine Reserves. He was deeply committed to the Masonic Order as a member of the Liberty pickering Lodge #219 (formerly Pickering #146) AF&AM of Maryland for over 70 years, serving in many leadership roles, including R.W. Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Maryland; 2005 Supreme Tall Cedar of Lebanon; 2015 Potentate of the Boumi Shriners; and longtime member of both the Scottish and York Rites. Additionally, he is a past Commander of the Parkton American Legion and a proud member of DeMolay.

Born and raised in Hampden on Elm Avenue, Ray attended Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, the University of Baltimore, and the University of Baltimore School of Law. He went on to have a long and distinguished career in corporate real estate, including serving in the 1970’s as the Head of General Services for the State of Maryland.

Ray enjoyed traveling with Anita, exploring many parts of the United States and several foreign countries. He was also a passionate Baltimore Ravens fan from their inaugural season, proudly holding PSL’s and cheering them on each fall. A lifelong lover of German Shepherds, Ray always had one by his side, reflecting his steadfast loyalty and protective spirit.

Above all, Ray was a proud and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished time with his family. His life was marked by service, integrity, and love — qualities that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

A visitation for William will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Boumi Shriners, 5050 King Avenue, Rosedale, Maryland 21237, where a funeral service will be held from

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. A committal service to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery & Chapel, Woodlawn Cemetery, Baltimore, Maryland 21207.

In lieu of flowers contributions in his name to the Boumi Temple Shriners Children’s Hospital or the Tall Cedars of Lebanon Muscular Dystrophy Charity.