LEXINGTON – Raymond D. “Ray” DeShazo, 71, passed away after a 50 year battle with cancer on Friday, January 11, 2013 at the Medical University of South Carolina. Forever the valiant fighter against the devastating disease, Ray was not defined by his relationship with it, but rather in his roles as a devoted husband, loving father, doting and proud grandfather, great brother and son, passionate supporter of the churches he attended and the communities where he lived, and a teller of tall tales. His quick wit and positive attitude will be missed by everyone.
While first diagnosed with cancer at the age of 19, he never let it prevent him from living a fulfilling life that has allowed him to serve as an inspiration to countless others. He leaves behind his adoring wife of 48 years, Carol Jean Gross DeShazo; two daughters, Jamie (Kevin) Grant, of Carol Stream, Illinois, Kelly DeShazo, of Lexington, South Carolina and four grandchildren, Ryan and Jeremy Grant of Carol Stream, Illinois and Kelsey and Kyle Foster of Lexington, South Carolina. He is also survived by sister, Diane (Arthur) Street of Gaylord, Michigan and brother, Robert (Jan) DeShazo of Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas Ira and Betty Jean Rusk DeShazo. Ray was an active member and participant in many organizations and activities which include Corpus Christi Church, Gold’s Gym, his fantasy baseball leagues, the Medical University of South Carolina and Relay for Life. Ray was a graduate of Michigan State University, was a Career Explorer Director for Boy Scouts of America, Executive Director for Chamber of Commerce in Chicago, Dunkin Donut Franchise Owner and the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission Executive.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, January 18, 2013 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 19, 2013 at Corpus Christi Church in Lexington.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the Corpus Christi Church Building Fund.
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