Eldred Ray Wornom

Eldred Ray Wornom, 79, met his Savior face-to-face on Saturday, September 28, 2019. Most recently residing in Richmond, he was born on January 13, 1940 in Poquoson, Virginia. Ray was the son of Etta Carmines Wornom and Willie Gibbs Wornom. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Elsie Wornom, and Eloise Henderson; brothers, Edgar Wornom, Hugh Wornom, and Boyce Wornom. He is survived by his daughter Sara King and her husband Charles, his beloved granddaughters Rachel and Samantha; and his daughter Jennifer Kelly. He is also survived by his brothers; Stephen Wornom and wife Marie-Jo; Gerald Wornom and wife Nancy; Wendell Wornom and wife Betty; sister-in-law Dorothy Wornom; his former wife Beryl Wornom; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many lifelong friends. Ray attended business school in Richmond, and worked as a court stenographer. In 1975, he began working with the City of Richmond Fire Bureau, and received the American Red Cross highest Lifesaving Award in 1976. Ray eventually started his own landscaping business. His services were coveted because of his attention to detail in making a yard look beautiful. He ultimately found his passion as an arborist. Known as the “Tre Klmr” in Poquoson, you could always find Ray perched in the top of a tree wearing his cowboy hardhat. He was known for his expertise in the tree climbing community, and he passed on his skills to many others. In his younger years, Ray was active in weightlifting. He lifted, and also tabulated results for local and national competitions. He also tabulated results for body building competitions in the area. He remained active with the weightlifting community throughout his life. Ray was an avid golfer. He enjoyed being near the water, going clamming and fishing with friends, and eating seafood. Ray loved to read, and watch PBS. He would always call people to let them know about an upcoming show they might be interested in watching. Ray loved being outdoors and traveling. He loved to sing and dance and listen to music. He was always breaking out into song, especially “The Star Spangled Banner.” Mostly, he loved his family and friends; always calling to say hello, happy birthday, reminisce over a shared moment, or give congratulations for a happy occasion or accomplishment. Ray’s smile and encouragement will be greatly missed. We have hope that he is enjoying these days with Jesus, climbing heavenly trees, and singing with the angels. The family will receive friends starting at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 19th, with a memorial service immediately following at 2:00 p.m., at the Woody Funeral Home Atlee Chapel, 9271 Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville, Virginia 23116. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Heart Association.