Ray was the fifth of six children of Royal and Clara Morrissette. Ray was born in Central Falls RI while spending his later years in both Foxboro and Norton MA before retiring and moving to Florida
As a member of the "Greatest Generation", Ray joined the Army at the age of 18 and served under General James Gavin as part of the 82nd Airborne the "All Americans" during WW2. Following the surrender of Germany, the 82nd was ordered to Berlin for occupation duty. In Berlin General George Patton was so impressed with the 82nd's Honor Guard he said "In all my years in the Army and all the honor guards I have ever seen the 82nd' is undoubtedly the best" Ray was a proud member of that honor guard.
Marching down 5th Avenue in New York City on January 12,1946, along with 13,000 of his fellow comrades in arms, for the Victory Parade was an experience that Ray was also so proud to be a part of.
After leaving the service he worked for over 30 years in construction Starting out as a laborer. Ray's talent and dedication to hard work saw his career progress to becoming an excavation supervisor.
After leaving construction Ray worked for another 15 years in the automotive industry before retiring to Florida
He was a kind and loving partner in life to his beautiful spouse Marie, as well as an amazing father to their daughter Karin and son Glenn.
As a member of the Sons of Italy he looked forward to the Saturday night pasta feasts and special theme diners. But most especially
enjoying time with friends and dancing the night away with Marie the love of his life
In his early years he enjoyed roller skating and playing the harmonica.
An avid sports enthusiast Ray enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Celtics and Patriots. In Florida he became a major fan of the Tampa Bay Rays
As much as he enjoyed pro sports his true love was in watching his son Glenn play both football and baseball along with Karin's gymnastics. He also coached youth sports enjoying the special bond it creates between father and child
He is survived by his wife of 72 years Marie who resides in Port Charlotte FL, his two children Karin and her husband John Lihzis form Mashpee Massachusetts and his son Glenn Morrissette from Tampa FL. He is also survived by two sisters Pauline Morrissette, Port Charlotte, FL and Trudy Skladany, Monroe Twp, NJ. Plus two grandchildren Bryan Lihzis and his wife Amy Lihzis and Christopher Lihzis and his wife Jennifer Lihzis and his five great grandchildren, Julia, Alyson, Sydney, Payton and Jack .
A memorial service with full military honors will be held this summer at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne Massachusetts.
As a expression of sympathy memorial contributions may be sent to the 82nd Airborne Association at
82nd Airborne Division Association, Inc.
P.O. Box 87482
Fayetteville, NC 28304-7482
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