Louis Hillman Wray

Louis Hillman Wray, age 63, transitioned from this life into the loving arms of Jesus on September 27, 2021. Louis spent his final days in Hot Springs under the care of his sister Becky and Arkansas Hospice following his short and courageous battle with liver cancer. He leaves a big hole in the hearts of his family and friends.

Louis was born January 14, 1958, to Thelma Jean Redding and Jack Wray of Camden, Arkansas. Louis was a long-awaited, unexpected gift to Thelma Jean and Jack and was an adorned grandson to Lulu Mae and Grady “Hilly” Cathey.

Louis is proceeded in death by his mother, Thelma Jean Redding, and his father, Jack Wray. He is survived by his sisters, Becky (Dwight) Futrell and Susan Wray, his nieces and nephews, Chris (Christy) Canfield, Austin (Whitney) Futrell, Landon Wray and Lauren Wray, great nieces McKenzie Canfield, Marleigh Washington, Chanleigh Wray, Makeena Wray and Uncle Lynwood (Joyce) Cathey and his cousins, Steven Cathey, Kelly Cathey Smith, Mark Cathey, and Janet Cathey.

Louis was big, boisterous, loving, and kind. He was a master storyteller. Louis could make the most mundane situation seem hilarious. He would tell things with such attention to detail and in that, you would appreciate the little things more. Louis never let the truth stand in the way of a good story. Everyone was laughing and smiling when Louis was around. Even Becky, who Louis kept in a constant state of frustration, would ultimately break into a smile.

Later in his life, he became committed to Christ. He studied the Bible and discovered the philosopher and preacher within himself. He found his community of friends in Fort Smith. Louis touched the lives of countless people. Our family will be forever grateful for the love and support from Bro. Dan Williams and the congregation of Midland Heights United Methodist Church of Fort Smith.

Louis will be laid to rest at a graveside service October, 23 @ 1:00 p.m. at the Dunn Cemetery in Locust Bayou. In celebration of Louis’s life, memorials may be sent to Midland Heights UMC, 3500 N 6th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904.