July 12, 1934 – December 10, 2023
Raymond (Ray) W. Waggoner, Jr, MD passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family in the early morning of December 10, 2023. He lived 89 years of a rich, full life.
He was born in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Dr. Raymond W and Marion (Donnelly) Waggoner. Ray married his beloved wife, Nancy (Parish) Waggoner in 1957.
Ray grew up in Ann Arbor where, as a boy, he did his part to support the small family farm while his father consulted with the Armed Forces in Washington DC during World War II. He became enamored of flying through his building of and competing with model airplanes. His love of wood working began as a youngster as did his passion for dabbling in mechanical engineering as he fixed tractors, cars and more.
Ray went on to attend the University of Michigan where he enjoyed being “a local” who could generously share his snazzy black convertible for rides and his family home for friends to gather for bonfires and fun. He earned his medical degree and went on to specialize in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. During his residency he was called to serve two years in the Army. His career was rich with clinical practice and academic teaching. He taught and practiced when affiliated with the University of Michigan, Vanderbilt University, Brown University and The Ohio State University. He was an examiner for The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for many decades. Among several professional organizations, Ray was a Fellow in the American College of Psychiatrists and the American Psychiatric Association. He served on many Boards of Directors and was a consultant to many treatment facilities through the years. In Ohio he developed and lead the Child and Adolescent Department at Harding Hospital. From there he consulted with the Gestalt Institute, and he maintained a private practice up until his retirement only six years ago. Ray was passionate about his work with children, adolescents, families, and adults.
In addition to his deep commitment to providing care for others, Ray also enjoyed time with family and friends whether he was playing golf or tennis, fly fishing in the Rocky Mountains, appreciating music, or loving his family pets. Known as Mr. Fix-it at home, it was there that he found tinkering throughout the house and mowing the lawn on his oft repaired tractor as his preferred sources of relaxation. While working in his “shop” did not happen as much as he would have liked, his beautiful creations included a rocking chair, a cello platform, a drop leaf table and more. All are testaments to his passion for woodworking.
Ray was humble, thoughtful, and always a gentleman. He shared his contagious smile, laughter and, natural encouragement of others to the end. He will be deeply missed.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy, his daughter, Kimberly A Waggoner of Rhode Island, his son David D (Linda) Waggoner of Texas. He was “Papa” to his two grandchildren, Ella R and Owen P Waggoner of Texas. He is also survived by dear friends, Chaminda Wijesinghe and his family in Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Karen W Kitchen.
A Celebration will take place in March 2024 at the Worthington United Methodist Church. Date is yet to be confirmed.
The Waggoner family wishes to thank our friends, the staff of Friendship at Home and Rowan House at Friendship Village of Dublin as they cared for Ray and, also the family, during these last few years. Your kindness and compassion are much appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ray’s honor may be made to Doctors Without Borders, The Carpe Diem String Quartet, the Worthington United Methodist Church, or a charity that has meaning for the giver.
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