William J. Ray

William J. RAY William Junior Ray was born in Avery, Missouri on September 6, 1927, and passed away on April 26, 2011 at his home in Lake Forest Park, Washington due to complications from Parkinson Disease. Bill is survived by his wife of nine years, Marie Hayes-Ray, his sisters Frankie Austin, and Mildred Johnson, and his brother Dale Ray. He is preceded in death by his parents William Jean and Zula Merle Ray, his sister Janice Malone, and his first wife of 50 years, Jeanne V. Ray. Bill and Jeanne were married on December 26, 1948, and had three daughters, Diana Hawks of Claremore OK, Debby Catano of Provo UT, and Nancy Richardson of Rigby ID, and one son, John Ray of Marysville WA. They were blessed with 17 grandchildren. When Bill and Marie were married on May 18, 2002, Bill was pleased to add to his family three more daughters, Elizabeth Edelson, Cathy Harrington, and Mary MaKennan, another son, Monson Hayes, and 14 more grandchildren. Presently, combined they have 33 great-grandchildren. Bill had a distinguished career in the US Navy and served in three wars, WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He retired as a Lt. Commander after 27 years of service to his country. He worked in the merchant marine for 12 years as a tug boat captain, and for 13 years as a captain and mate for the Washington State Ferry System. A public viewing will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 14901 30th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA, on Friday, April 29, 2011 from 6pm - 9pm. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2011, at 11am, Abby View Cemetery in Brier, WA. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at 3pm at the church location listed above. Service provided by Bleitz Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington.