Ray W. Stinson

1953 - 2023

STINSON, Ray W., 70, went to be with the Lord on June 30, 2023 in Powhatan County, Va., where he was born and spent the majority of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, George W. and Inez B. Stinson; brothers, Arthur "A.C." Emerson Jr., and Franklin "Winky" Emerson; and sister, Florence Long. He is survived by his children, Melissa J. Stinson and Dwayne H. Stinson; his sister, Lois Blatto; his fiancé, Jody Coonley, who provided extraordinary care and support for him, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends, and of course, his beloved pets. Ray loved his hometown and offered help whenever he had an opportunity. He spent his entire career as a contractor, primarily as owner of his construction business, but likely is more well-known for his performances as Elvis in one of the five jumpsuits he owned. He loved music, playing guitar, and singing, and took great joy in sharing stories of his youth and childhood. He was a member of Hobson's Chapel Church in Tobaccoville, which sits next door to the family farm where he grew up. The family will receive friends 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, at Bennett and Barden Funeral Home. His service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Hobson's Chapel (6483 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan). Interment will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Hobson's Chapel, or to the charity of your choice.