Search by Name

Search by Name

William Ray Obituary

William Ray Jr. PORTSMOUTH - William "Junnie" Ray Jr. was born Sept. 27, 1942, in Portsmouth to Mr. and Mrs. William H. Ray Sr. William graduated from I.C. Norcom High School, Class of 1964. He later joined the Navy soon after graduation. After his honorable discharge, he became employed with Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Shop 56, as a pipefitter. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Lillie Ray and his sister, Rosa Mare Ray. He is survived by his father, William H. Ray Sr.; wife, Thelma Ray and from this union they had three children, Lisa V. McDonald, Rachelle E. Wattie, both of Portsmouth; one son, William H. Ray III of Portsmouth; nine grandchildren, Keena McDonald, Shawntia Wattie, Bianca Wattie, Sidney McDonald, Keyandra Wattie, Raeshaun Wattie, Jordan Ray, Shaqira Ray and Jalyn Ray; seven sisters, Geraldine Chappelle of St. Mary's, Ga., Mary Hampton of Portsmouth, Joyce Harris of Chesapeake, Beverly Vaughan (Aubrey) of Portsmouth, Nettie Bailey of Chesapeake, Deborah Mason-Williams (Willie) of Portsmouth, Arlethia Gallop (Lewis) of Portsmouth; one brother, Lawrence Ray (Helen) of Coppers Cove, Texas; and a host of nieces, nephews and many other devoted relatives and caring friends who loved him deeply. A funeral will be held Monday at noon in Fairwood AGAPE Church. A burial will be in Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. Corprew Funeral Home is in charge.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Jan. 24, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for William Ray

Not sure what to say?





6 Entries

Dianne Barnes

February 23, 2009

To the family of my dear cousin, it will take time, you will never forget, but the pain will get easier and the memories will last forever. Just knowing he's resting in God's arm relieves some of the pain. Continue to trust God and He will see you through this too. With Love and Prayers.
Your cousins, Marjorie Ray Joyner &

Deborah Mason-Williams

February 18, 2009

My fondest memories of my brother stated as i was very young. I remember him being an mechanic before he started working at the shipyard (NNSY) because he built a go-cart for us, a jumping board and bean shooters. I will miss our prayer sessions and his visits on sunday after church. My heart is comforted because he was a devote christian and i know who holds his hand. My blessings to his wife and children who may have their heads lifted with pride in knowing they are part of a firm construction (my Brother) who has passed his legacy of pride and courage to them. To GOD be the glory. To Thelma -- the process of healing may be slow, but GOD"s love is everlasting in your heart for the years you both shared together.

Monitta Alvin

February 18, 2009

To an uncle who I love so much. Who always showed me love and kindness. I will always remember him as a great friend wonderful dad and a outstanding uncle. I know my uncle is at peace and I am so happy the suffering has gone. I will always have love in my heart for him.

Rachelle Ray

February 18, 2009

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

Nettie Bailey

January 24, 2009

My loving brother, who gave his life for his family, friends, and community. We talked nearly everyday on the phone. As an avid student of bible, when I had a question, he was my source. He and I predicted, and agreed on political and current afairs. I am so glad he was able to call me and exclaim on the victory of our first black president. That ment a lot to him. -- He was my heart.

Carolyn Glover

January 24, 2009

My sincere sympathy to the Ray family,we went to Norcom together in the "64" class,My prayers go out to you during this time,may God comfort you.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results

Make a Donation
in William Ray's name

Memorial Events
for William Ray

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
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 more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources 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.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
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 more
Ways to honor William Ray's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more