Marvin Ray Chatham, a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend left this earth to join his beloved wife, Jan in a place of no more pain or sorrow. He passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. Ray will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him dearly. Ray was born on March 23, 1944 in Meridian, Mississippi to the late Mamie Simmons Chatham and Marvin Smith Chatham. He was raised by his stepdad, Calvin Krause. Ray was the only brother to his two sisters, Elizabeth and Linda.
He was a Jordan Vocational High School graduate. Ray was married to the late Janice Sellers “Jan” Chatham. Together Ray and Jan made Columbus their home where he worked as a welder for United Cities Gas later Atmos Gas until his retirement. Ray was Christian by faith and his love for his Lord and Savior reflected in his life with his values for his family. Ray cherished and honored the love of his life, Jan, she was his world.
Ray’s first love was his family, but when he could Ray was known to go out deep sea fishing when he had the opportunity. Ray loved fishing, going to the casino, and supporting the Georgia Bulldogs. He was an avid “GO DAWGS!!” fan.
He leaves his loving memory to be cherished by his children: Lynn Smith, James Yates, and Melissa Powell; his sister, Elizabeth Wooddell; his grandchildren: Candice, Alison, Heidi, Crystal, Christopher, Michael, David, Avory, Jacob, and Justin; his 21 great grandchildren; his sisters-in-law: Fredda Ward and Glenda Camper; his brother-in-law, Eudson Sellers; and numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Mamie and Marvin Chatham; his stepdad, Calvin Krause; his beloved wife, Jan; his son, Calvin Chatham; his granddaughters: Brittany McCormick and Kimberly Chatham; and his sister, Linda Green.
Visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM in the St. Elmo Room of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. A service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 3:00 PM in Fisher Chapel of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary with Rev. Jerry Wooddell and Rev. Ramone Wooddell officiating. Burial will follow in Parkhill Cemetery.
