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Ray Hutchinson Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ray Hutchinson
Sponsored by his loving family.
Anthony Catapano
December 7, 2024
21 years ago you gave the ultimate sacrifice. My brother, I think about you everyday still, you are inked on my body and soul forever. As I sit here next to my 7 year old son showing him pictures of you and I, of your parents.. even his precious innocent mind understands the pain and importance of remembering. You are always loved and never forgotten.
Shiloh
May 21, 2020
Memorial Day is here again, brother. But you already know this.
Brett H.
May 29, 2016
Was thinking of you brother. I'll pour one out for you. Miss ya.
Shiloh McMasters
September 11, 2015
As both his fraternity brother and a member of the 101st, I am reminded how special he was. Thank you.
Cheryl Cooley
December 8, 2014
Love from the Cooley family
May 15, 2013
God Bless this MAN of strength, courage and heroism!!!! I'm sooo sorry for the loss this country has and will endure without him! Much love to all who knew & loved him and I am forever grateful for his duty and loyalty to all!!! I'm just so sorry I did not find this small space earlier to express my LARGE sincere condolences and appreciation for Ray, his family and friends. xoxoxo! Michelle Turiello from Middletown NJ
vickie grigsby
November 27, 2012
Our Hero!
Peggy Childers
December 7, 2011
To the family and friends of Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson:
Please accept my remembrance of Ray on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Blake Durand
March 29, 2011
Went to Clear Creek High School with Ray where I now teach. His sacrifice is still remembered there. Jesus said "greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends..." May we meet again when our blessed Savior returns.
Peggy Childers
December 7, 2010
To the family and friends of Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson:
Remembering Ray on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Kay Perez
June 3, 2010
I never personally knew Ray Joseph but I do know his lovely mother and father. I will never forget the day I learned of his sacrifice for the love of his country, his family, and his friends. His family turned their personal loss into good works for others and in that Ray Joseph lives on and continues to be a blessing. I am so thankful for his life and all the others that have gone and those that are still there fighting for our freedom. God Bless each one of them and their families. None of them have given their life in vain, but Ray keeps on giving thru the love of his parents and family. May God continue to bless this work that began in Ray Joseph's honor.
Linda Hutchinson
May 31, 2010
We are remembering Ray and his precious family today - this Memorial Day 2010. Ray lives on in the hearts of all who love him.
Rebekah Cyphers
February 17, 2010
He will always live in our hearts.
Donna Gillette
December 26, 2009
On this day and with each day that we enjoy our freedom, I would like to give thanks and let you know that I do not take our troops for granted. May you experience God when you feel your loss.
Adrianne Holmes-Campbell
December 17, 2009
A great guy who touched everyones heart. It has been years since his tragedy but I will always remember him as the great guy I knew in High School who always knew how to make someone smile and laugh! I am thankful to see that his name and story live on and that there are scholarships in his honor. Ray, you will never be forgotten!
Kenna
November 24, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
October 23, 2009
God bless and comfort your family. The scholarship is such a wonderful tribute to PFC Hutchinson. Our family is grateful for the freedoms he fought to defend. Thank you.
Henryk Zaleski USN-Ret
July 11, 2009
We prayed for you in 2006 and do so again to keep your sacrifice in memory and to remain grateful.
Come join us, Thursday, June 25, South Shore Harbour---Salute to Heroes V
Deborah Hutchinson
May 23, 2009
Peggy Childers
December 7, 2008
To the family of Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson:
Ray gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
James Ferebee
December 6, 2008
I was Ray's First Sergeant in Iraq. There are not too many days that pass that I don't think of Ray's winning attitude and ultimate sacrifice. Specialist Hutchinson was a one of a kind soldier. He was confident, honest, loyal, brave, and a joy to lead. He gave 100% regardless of the task. He came to the United States Army with these attributes in place; representing his family well. I have since retired from the U.S. Army and currently teach 8th grade U.S. History. As I teach young Americans about the heroes of our nation, Specialist Hutchinson is the first to come to mind. To Hutch's parents, your son is not forgotten...
His memory lives with me forever,
Christen Valcoviak
December 4, 2008
I am so thankful for what Ray did for his country. I wish he wouldn't have died doing it though.
I have never met him, but just hearing about him, he sounded like such a wonderful person. In every picture I saw him in he was smiling except for one.
I just wanted to let you know that we really appreciate what he did for our country and we love him very much!
alexis Richardson
December 4, 2008
umm after seeing the video about your son i was like dang he likes to smile lol. then i heard his story and felt bad about what happened to you and your family and im truly sorry for your loss. i just wanted to tell you taht i think what your son did was amazing. i really respect people who are in the army. so i just wanted to let you know that i am very thankful for all that he has done.
-alexis
Blake McClimon
December 4, 2008
Dear,
Hutchinson’s I am a current Clear Creek High School student and I have watched your son Rays video in miss Jameson’s class and I am sorry about your son. Ray seemed like a great soldier and a good person, we are currently doing a care package for the soldiers currently in Iraq and Ray has inspired me to help as much as I possibly can. God bless your son and all other serving this country, people like your son keep this world safe and protect this beautiful country.
Sincerely,
Blake McClimon
Kaitlyn Blake
December 3, 2008
I didn't know Ray, but I truly wish that I had. Just hearing his story and how much people loved him brings me to tears. He was an amazing man that was always smiling, always generous, and always selfless. The world has lost another absolutely spectacular, wonderful person. Ray was such a blessing and inspiration to all that knew him. I can't begin to imagine the saddness that the family had to go through.
After reading all of these stories about Ray, I wonder if there was ever a man so kind as him. To all of the friends and family of Ray, know that you are all in our hearts and in our prayers. When Mrs. J told us about Ray and what happened to him, I had wondered why she didn't tell us more. But now I know that it was because it was just so hard for her to tell us about him because she misses him. To this day, every time she talks about him, you can just tell that she gets teary-eyed and that he was a true inspiration to her.
With the 5 year anniversary of Ray's death coming up, I can imagine that now is one of the hardest times for them. I know that Ray's soul will live through their eyes and through their hearts.
We love you and are so sorry for your loss! <3
Our next Salute to Heroes will be June 25, 2009. This wonderful event not only honors our military, but it also helps build new scholarships for graduating CCISD Seniors from the Ray Joseph Hutchinson Foundation! www.rjhfoundation.org
December 3, 2008
Shannon O'Neil
December 3, 2008
I didn't know Ray, but just hearing his story brings me to tears. i can't imagine the pain of loosing someone so close to you and my thoughts and prayers go out to those suffering from terrible loses. Even though Ray didn't know me, he still died for me and my freedom. It's such an blessing to have all the soldiers out there keeping me safe. Thank you sooo much!
Wynette Jameson and Chris Kirkham remember what a great guy Ray was. We miss him terribly.
December 2, 2008
Bruce D Ranstad
November 24, 2008
Ray:
From the father of one of your fellow soldiers (albeit a Cavalry scout sniper - I understand the rivalry between Cavalry and Infantry. *s*) who just spent 15-months serving on the front lines of eastern Afghanistan and experienced the loss of too many friends ... well, this site's tribute to you brought home not only my own memories of Vietnam and lost buddies, but also the pain of knowing what my son has to now live with given the same.
You did well Ray, you define "Loyalty Above All ... Except Honor".
To your parents - I can not even begin to imagine how it must be - I spent many sleepless nights while mine was in harm's way - and I can honestly say that - I don't know that I would have been, or could have been, strong enough to do what your parents have done with this site - instead I can't help but feel I would have withdrawn from society.
But after seeing this site - and knowing that he will again be redploying soon, either to Iraq or once again to Afghanistan - it has given me strength.
For that - I thank them, commend them, and of course, offer my sincerest condolences.
Ray, you chose to serve this great country "with a blank check, including up to including your life".
The decision that you made, along with my son and others ... says all that needs to be said ... your and yours ARE the next "Great Generation".
MAC(SW/SS) Bruce D Ranstad
U.S. Navy, Retired
Erin Smith
July 28, 2008
Ray,
We all miss you terribly. There isn't a day that goes by that we don't think about you. You are a great inspiration to us and our Hero. God Bless you and your family.
Robert Hiles
July 13, 2008
Semper Fi Ray from Marine Gunnery Sergeant
Robert Hiles.
In the Marine Corps Hymn, it says "Here's health to you and to our Corps,Which we are proud to serve;
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve. If the Army and the Navy Ever look on Heaven's scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines."
I feel certain that now we all take turns patrolling the perimeter. God is Blessing you now, of that I am certain!
walter Schmitt
June 25, 2008
I served in Alpha company with Hutchison. He always seemed come off as a level headed soldier. Not a day goes by that I don't think about the guys I knew that didn't come back. Id like to send my very best to his family.
GATORS....
Pfc Pratt
June 2, 2008
From one Soldier to another Soldier...HOOAH!!! Rest In Peace Bro!
AJ Burnett
May 28, 2008
hello Hutchinsons i just wanted to say that My family is still praying for you guys and hopefully we will be able to come out west and see ya'll soon. Again i give you all my thoughts and prayers.
tami prangle
May 13, 2008
ray's smile is adorable. his vivacious personality will live on in all the lives he touched while living life to the fullest and giving his life for our freedom. well done soldier...well done... blessings and peace for your parents and brother, tami
March 22, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Pfc Hutchinson!
Karen Byler
December 11, 2007
My son Justin and Hutch (as he called Ray)were really good friends and stationed in Iraq together. I have some pictures of both together that I would like to share with you. Once Justin and Hutch got back to the U.S. they were coming to our home in Texas. Justin wanted to show him where he lived. Justin talked so much and bragged on Hutch and everything they had in common. When Justin called home to give us the news, he was so torn up. He thought so much of Hutch. I pray for both, and they are never far from my thoughts.
Audrey Soto
December 7, 2007
The Soto family still and will always think about Ray. Today is the 4th anniversary of your death. Thank you for bringing us joy when we spent time with you, and thank you for fighting for our freedom.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
December 7, 2007
Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the HUTCHINSON family.Knowing now what they have always known is one of many reasons that our HERO[ES] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommised that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel shall be FOREVER clutched in the tallons,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation....THANK..YOU......HO..YAAH...B.V.C....
Chris Horner
November 15, 2007
Ray is an amazing person, who came from a wonderful family. So many great things have been said about him here, but none can fully encompass the true pleasure it was to know him. He was the first friend I had in Texas and he will always be remembered as a hero in my heart.
shanna williamson
October 27, 2007
iam so sorry for the death of ray please accept my prayer from my heart with sympathy love shanna elizabeth williamson
Sarah Griffin
September 11, 2007
Although his presence is constantly felt in my heart, and I cannot remember a day when my thoughts did not rest on memories of him at least once, there are specific days when the sadness of his loss is greater to me. Today especially, being a significant day in our country's history and a day for honoring fallen heroes, makes me think of Ray. I remember sitting with him on this day, six years ago, both in shock with heavy, saddened hearts as we watched the tragedy befalling our country and her innocent citizens. September 11th deeply affected all of America, but I know it challenged Ray to answer the call of service and to defend those he loved from the threat of additional attacks and senseless terrorism.
I am so grateful every day for his unselfishness and willingness to give his life for ME. For he did not fight for agendas, politics or causes, but for those innocents at home, ESPECIALLY those he knew personally and loved. When I think of such sacrifice, I am humbled beyond words.
Thank you Deborah, Michael, and all who keep his memory alive. It helps so much to be able to see how his legacy continues through the scholarship and foundation. I pray for your family every night and hope that you are comforted by each other, your deep love and appreciation for Ray, and your faith in God.
There is no way to describe the ways I miss your son. I miss just knowing that he is in the world, somewhere. It hurts me to think about those who miss him, and I feel sorry for those who will never get the opportunity to know such an amazing individual. But I am blessed to know that we will meet him again someday. And I am so very proud to have had the chance to know even a small bit about him. My life and the life of countless others will be enriched forever because he gave his so selflessly. The sparkle that he brought to my life will never dim.
Thank you for sharing him and allowing him to fufill his journey. God bless you always.
August 15, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 26, 2007
Thank you for your willingness to defend the United States of America and all that we hold sacred. Though tears can never bring you back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that you made and our sorrow at your passing. You are truly a hero and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Your mission on earth is complete. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the heroes who have passed before.
July 7, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Pfc Hutchinson and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Robin
July 5, 2007
No words can ever say how gratful we are for your sweet son,as we speak my son to is on his way to Iraq,thay are all so presuse and we are so blessed to be thire moms.thankyou and GOD be with you everyday please keep our son and all the men and women of the military in your life and prayers THANKYOU FOR HONERING YOUR SONS EFFORTS FOR ALL OF US.
Jamie Arnold
May 23, 2007
I went to college with Ray at SWT (Texas State). We lived in Smith Dorm together. I remember the late nights siting in the courtyard just talkin about nothing.I will never forget the Pi Kapp parties:) The last time I saw Ray was when he came to visit us at school and he talking about jumping out of the airplane and how cool it was. I will never forget your smile and how you brought a smile to my face. I miss you and love you
JEFFREY HUNTER
May 12, 2007
One of the best soldiers that anyone could serve with. Always full of humor and most importantley a highly disciplined soldier. You will never be forgotten from all those who you came into contact with. Take care brother. You will always be in our prayers.
Gary Allain
April 30, 2007
Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.
Jeff Kiene
April 25, 2007
I just wanted you to know, every time I take my kids mountain Biking, I think about Ray Hutchinson.
God Bless you family.
walt L
January 5, 2007
To the family of pfc. ray hutchinson
we cannot know your grief and pain. we can only hope that your days are eased by your memories of your love one and in the pleasure of having him in your life for such a short time.God Bless you and yours always.
S Stanley
January 5, 2007
To the family and friends of Ray:
Please know that Ray is still remembered. His service to our country honored and appreciated.
With deepest respect.....
Arthur Leal
December 7, 2006
Well i met Ray at Walter Hall and had a great time with him all the way through High school. I love to see all of these people that we graduated with writing on his guest books. I want the Hutchinson family to know that you are in our prayers. I will never forget all of the memories that we have of Ray.May this anniversary be soft amongst your hearts. Always in our prayers.
Garnet Jenkins
December 7, 2006
In remembrance of Pfc. Ray J. Hutchinson, on this 3rd anniversary of the day he gave his life for our Country and for Freedom.
May Ray, rest safely in the Loving Care of God and know that he is a True American hero, that shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
May the Peace of the Lord continue to be with the Hutchinson family.
There will never be enough ways, to humbly thank these Heroes, for their Supreme Sacrifice,
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death,
nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have have passed away."
Revelations 21:4
May you find peace in knowing the love and memories you have, will remain in your heart forever and that this Country remembers Ray's sacrifice.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Celia Carnes
September 3, 2006
I think of Ray and his family every time I get an email about the war..and our prayers are with you. I wish we had known him, and we are so grateful for his sacrificial service.
Linda Hutchinson is my sister...
My grandson is in USMC and has served in Iraq...he goes again in
March, His brother just signed up and leaves for boot camp Sept 11th.....Our church prays for all
of our Military....
Jody Saxton
May 10, 2006
My son, Lindsay Saxton, attended school in League City with Ray. I have photos of them when they both played in the Symphonic Band in Middle School. Our family moved to North Carolina in 1999 and Lindsay lost touch with many of his League City friends. After graduating high school Lindsay joined the Army and also did his basic training at Ft. Benning. He was based at Ft. HOod with 4th ID and deployed to Iraq in March 2002. Much of his deployment was spent in Mosul, ironically at the same time Spc. Ray Hutchinson was also there. Their paths crossed earlier as children in League City, Texas, may have crossed as young men in Mosul,Iraq, and will someday cross again.
lindsay saxton
May 5, 2006
I cannot believe me and ray were in the same city in iraq at the same time doing the same exact job. why do bad things happen to good people? rest in peace buddy
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
April 20, 2006
Rest in peace at your last post in paradise.
Ken McAlpin
January 6, 2006
I knew Ray through my daughter Christine McAlpin. I was just thinking about him and remembering talking to him and being at my house with Chrissy. I always respected Ray and his values. I can only hope my daughter meets another person like him.
Daniel Dobbs
December 27, 2005
I too am a League City soldier, my wife was raised here. I feel a deep connection with Ray. I wear a memorial wrist band with his name engraved upon it. He is a true soldier, his gift to us is freedom!
Alex Marin
December 12, 2005
My deepest condolences. Ray is a hero and an Outstanding American. I graduated with him in Ft. Benning. 2nd Plt A Co 2-19 in December of 2002. I remember him being a leader and a all around good guy.
Deborah Hutchinson
December 11, 2005
We are so grateful for all of the entries in this guest book. Ray Joseph's father and I extend a big thank you to all who have taken the time to remember our wonderful son. You can see a short video of his life, as well as civilian and military photos of Ray Joseph Hutchinson, if you go to the following site---- http://fotki.com/mrsj
SPC Ray Joseph Hutchinson in Mosul, Iraq, less than ten days before he left this life from an improvised explosive devise which was detonated on the road near his vehicle as he was returning from a mission.
December 11, 2005
SPC Ray Joseph Hutchinson in Mosul, Iraq, less than ten days before he went Home to be with the Lord.
December 11, 2005
Ray Joseph Hutchinson, the Distinguished Honor Graduate from Ft. Benning on December 17, 2002. He was deployed to Iraq about two months later in early March, 2003.
December 11, 2005
matthew watson
December 7, 2005
ok, it has now been two years. and i have yet to forget the coolest, nicest, and most caring freind i ever had. possibly because his pictures and my scars. i was on ray's team in 2nd squad 1st platoon for most of our time in that place. i to this day sometimes wish that day would have taken me as well so we could still be laughing and having a good ol' time talkin about what we were going to do when we got home. or about family. i have lost contact with everyone. and if they should read this today please contact me. thank you and merry christmas.
Audrey Soto
December 7, 2005
I am sharing this site with my 5th grade class to honor Ray. He was a joy to know. Our family still misses him on this two year anniversary of his passing. He will never be forgoten.
Eric Mroz
December 1, 2005
It would have been an honor to have served with this soldier.
Geoffrey Rempert
October 24, 2005
May Ray be comforted in the arms of our Lord forever.
mel lamont
October 4, 2005
I met you both at the creek baseball game the night they honored our service members. I am one of the twins that stood in front of you to be honored. I never knew Ray, but I fought along side alot of brave souls just like him. Why Ray, and other young men and women? and not myself or my brother? Not one day has gone by since my tour of duty has ended I don't ask my self that question. My answer "everything happens for a reason". There is no answer to this great tragedy you have been handed. I can promise you myself and my brother will live our life to the fullest in honor of the friends we have lost and patriots like Pfc. Hutchinson. I never knew Ray but we did share one thing in common "love for our family, friends, and country" that alone would of made us best friends. I will always regret never knowing a patriot like your son. God bless you and your family. Lcpl Lamont USMC Semper fi.
DIANNA CRUZ
August 30, 2005
I'M VERY SORRY ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR SON, RAY. HE IS A TRUE HERO AND WILL BE REMEMBERED FOREVER, AS ONE WHO PAID THE HIGHEST PRICE FOR FREEDOM. HAVE COMFORT IN THE FACT YOU WILL BE WITH HIM AGAIN ONE DAY. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
Margaret Bolduc
August 5, 2005
I am so sorry for your loss. Your son was a hero to us all, and I know he is now safe with God. May He now give you the strength you need to carry on.
Jeff Kiene
July 20, 2005
I don't exactly know why I came to this site to read about your son's service for our country. I want you to know that I am very greatful and honored to read about RAY JOSEPH HUTCHINSON. I have two small children and will tell them about your son and his sacrifice. I am deeply moved by who he is and how his legacy lives on. I will never forget him we honor him from our family to his family.
Nikki Gott
May 25, 2005
I am truely sorry for your loss.I did go to school with Ray but never realy knew him to well. Although I always saw him with a smile on his face and he always said hello.I can only understand your loss to a certain extent.I lost my boyfriend in Iraq almost two years ago.What great men give their lives for our freedom!!! Your wonderful son was one of them and I'm proud to say I even knew who he was. May God keep you strong and your family will be in my prayers!
Tina Torres
May 11, 2005
My prayers are with you in your time of need. I am so sorry.
amy mitchell
April 21, 2005
I read about Ray at the CCISD site. I teach 6th grade math. I am so sorry for the loss. I think about all he gave up for me and my family to be free. We don't deserve it. I could never thank you or him enough.
Matthew Shailer
March 24, 2005
I only knew Ray in a peripheral sense. Though we attended the same school for three years, and shared the same attachment to our journalism class, he and I never shared a class, nor more than a minute or two in the same room. And yet the day he died (almost two years after his graduation, and over one year since my own)a stranger to me, and apparently a friend of Ray's delivered a speech in my university spanish course dedicated to Ray. When i heard it Ray's name was left out and just the situation of his death was described, Ray was simply referred to as a soldier and "friend." Over the next day I encountered another person who had suffered the loss of a best friend in the military, as I still was ignorant that the friend is Ray Hutchinson, as I still ignorant that I had suffered a similar loss, and ignorant that I shared such a connection to two other strangers. I just want this to be a testimonial of the effect Ray had on others. Such a simple coincidence, something so random was made incredibly meaningful and powerful by the joy and love Ray was able to share in his short time with us.
Misty Hays
February 23, 2005
I am deeply sorry for the loss of Ray. I remember him as a funny and super sweet guy. We rode the same bus though the school years and it is always a shock to discover the death of someone you know. I lost my mom in October of last year and remember the joy I got from reading what others remembered of her. My heart goes out to all of Ray's family and friends. He is forever thanked for his dedication to our country.
Laurence Collins
February 4, 2005
God bless you Ray.
Eric Linkenhoker
January 29, 2005
Its now been over a year since Ray gave his life for the people of this country, not a day goes by that I dont think about what he did for us. Ray is still such a hero and will always be missed. Ray touched so many lives and made so many people happy. Once again, Thank you Ray for my freedom!
Kristin Douglas
January 26, 2005
I graduated from Creek in 2000. Although I never knew Ray, I am very saddened by your loss. The name "Ray Hutchinson" will forever be in our mind and our hearts. His bravery and patriotism reminds me every day why I am proud to be an American. Ray has touched many lives, of those he knew and didn't know. So, I thank you Ray for allowing me and all of my fellow Americans to be free. God Bless the family and friends of Ray Hutchinson.
Tim Kuylen
January 15, 2005
Thank you Ray for our freedom. May God be with your family.
Frank Kuylen
January 4, 2005
Ray was an outstanding soldier and I am proud to have served with him in Iraq. He will be missed and his name will be carried on my wrist untill I die. My prayers goes out to his family and friends. Air Assault!!!!!
Christian Fischer
December 17, 2004
I never met Ray, however he was a fraternity member and therefore a brother. Thank you for your sacrifice for our country. It will never be forgotten.
Meagen McGregor
December 7, 2004
I went to High School with Ray and met him by my friends. The funniest moment I think of when his name comes to my mind is wearing women's shoes at Walmart. He was a very nice young man and he was always happy. He is always in my prayers. God Bless his family.
Cindy Rednour
December 4, 2004
To Ray's family and loved ones - It is almost one year to December 7th and that date will forever link our families as our son, James "Red" Rednour, was severly injured in the same humvee that Ray was riding in. We think of Ray every single day. Our son, James, wears a tatoo that honors Hutch. He will forever be a part of our memory. God bless you all. If ever you wish to contact us, please do. The Rednours
Bernadette Walls
November 15, 2004
I cannot believe it has almost been a year. Still isn't a day that goes by that I do not think about him. God bless his family.
Bernard (Bernie) Festa
November 11, 2004
No words can express what Ray's family and close friends have endured; but one thing I'm confident of is that the Almighty Lord comforts him now. God is there for us all to call upon in need. Praise God and bless you all.
Melissa Medina
October 26, 2004
I never met Ray, but for some reason or another I was drawn to his name on a list of fallen soldiers. I want to express my deepest sympathies to his family I cannot imagine the pain you have endured through this loss. I also want to say thank you to Ray for his sacrifice in protecting America and helping the people of Iraq. God Bless you always!
Hilary Overby
October 14, 2004
I knew Ray from high school, he was a great guy and always had a smile on his face. I came across some pictures the other day from New Year's Eve that he had spent with some of us and I think to myself that heaven has gained a great angel.
Sarah Hughes
October 11, 2004
Eventhough I never even met Ray Hutchinson, when I saw his picture my heart skipped a beat. I didnt know what to think because I kept sayin to myself how can a young man so handsome and young be killed? When I saw his picture for the first time his smile just glowed, and after reading eveyones entries I was brought to tears of how much a beautiful person he was. May god bless his family and our troops.
Pam Domino
October 11, 2004
I only learned of Ray's death today. I knew him only briefly when my son Sam attended Hall Elementary with Ray. We both have fond memories of the little blond hair boy that always had a smile.
Gene Goodner
August 31, 2004
it is not fun to lose a friend all i can say is i miss him and i wish i can be half the solider ray was and i know he is looking over me as i make my way to iraq soon love you ray and i miss you
Melissa Valdez
July 13, 2004
To Lee and the rest of the Hutchinson family - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Lee, I never meet your brother but I can only imagine that he was as kind and caring as you are. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Lauren Barkdull
April 19, 2004
I met Ray when we were both working at the HEB in Friendswood. We quickly became friends. I joined the military in 2000 and returned from Iraq in late December of 2003. I found out from our former boss that he had been killed. I couldn't cry, I couldn't do anything...I was stunned. I was angry that I made it back and he didn't. Ray was a wonderful person. Every day that I saw him, I saw his wonderful smile. That is one of the things I remember most about him. He had a beautiful smile. I remember the way we laughed when he played jokes on me at work. He was always happy, always playful. To his family- I am sorry for your loss. I know that doesn't do much for you. Please know that your son will always live in my thoughts and I will never forget him.
Shannon Humphrey
March 8, 2004
Ray,
Another group of your fellow soilders leaves this morning @ 11:00 from Fort Hood to tackle the continued tasks you gave of yourself for. Please keep them under your Angel Wings. Thank you again for giving so freely to improve our America. Soar like an Eagle.
Bruce & Mary Crider
March 7, 2004
We often think of you.
Jason Till
February 23, 2004
Hutch was in my platoon at Ft. Benning in Infantry school. I never served with him in Iraq but nevertheless I knew he was an outstanding soldier and a good man. He fought for all the right reasons and I will never forget his sacrifice.
Jennika Wasilewsky
February 16, 2004
I didn't meet Ray. But, I knew his folks from the gym. Both of his parents are lovely people I can only imagine Ray picking up the best of their character. From the beginning of time their have been warriors and soldiers they are the protectors and leaders of our world. My heart goes out to Deborah and Michael may you find peace and love in every memory.
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How to support Ray's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Ray Hutchinson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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