Nelson Walter Ray, known by many as "Cowboy", passed away August 22, 2019 in Jacksonville, FL. Nelson was born on May 10, 1931 in Georgia to Fred Ray and Lettie Ray. He was 88 years old at the time of his passing. Cowboy loved fishing and hunting, woodwork, and was described as having a "green elbow" because of his love of gardening. Cowboy was married to Dorothy Jane Ray for 64 years, and she passed away in 2015. Cowboy was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply and sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
Cowboy was preceded by his wife, Dorothy; one son, Eugene; and two grandchildren, Michael and Robbie. He is also preceded in death by all of his siblings and his parents. Cowboy is survived by his three children Connie Gaumond (Alex), Jimmy Ray (Ginette), and Pennie Keene; three grandchildren Christina, David, and Brandi; and eleven great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park and Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 9:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Riverside Memorial Park.