Ray Hendricks

Ray Hendricks, who lived life strictly on his own terms, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on Monday, March 30, 2026. After a courageous two-year battle with cancer and a defiant seven-year standoff with congestive heart failure, Ray has finally hung up his helmet to reunite with the love of his life, Patricia, who preceded him in death nine years ago.

He was never more at home than when he was behind the handlebars of his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. A true biker, he felt the call of the open road, having ridden thousands of miles on legendary trips to Sturgis and Daytona Bike Week. Closer to home, he found peace in the curves of the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the wind and the engine's roar were matched only by his stereo celebrating Eric Church, Prince, Kingfish, and Eminem.

Ray was a man of firm convictions-especially when it came to his diet. He famously (and proudly) bragged that he never let a vegetable cross his lips. Instead, he was a connoisseur of the American classic: a perfect cheeseburger (mayo only) or a destination hot dog (chili only). It wasn't uncommon for Ray to ride hours out of his way just to find a hot dog worth the trip.

In the industrial parts industry, Ray was a fixture starting in the West Virginia coal mines, then moving to Virginia Bearings, American Bearings, and finally Motion Industries where he stayed for decades. His "retirement" became an annual event; he officially retired from Motion Industries many times. He simply couldn't stay away from the satisfaction of a good day's work.

While Ray kept his inner circle small, his loyalty to those within it was fierce and unshakable. He was a cornerstone of support for his family and his closest friends.

• Family: He is survived by his devoted sons, Christopher and Charles, and his cherished grandchildren: Nyx, Zachary, Hannah, and Sophia, all of whom carry a piece of his stubborn, loving spirit. Also his extended family: Ellen, April, David, Karen, Sarah, Acadia, Isaac, Sylvia, Micah, Martha, Bill, Karol, Blake, and Tonya.

• Friends that he considered family: He leaves behind his ride-or-die inner circle: Rick, Amy, Terry, and his many friends from the Roanoke Valley Harley Owners Group who stood by him through the miles and the years.

Ray lived a life defined by horsepower, heart, and his love for family. He fought his health battles with the same tenacity he used to climb a mountain pass on his bike, and he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and unwavering devotion.

He wants to thank the talented doctors at the UVA Cancer Center, UVA Oncology, UVA Palliative Care, and UVA Neurosurgery for their care and compassion. He also wanted to show deep appreciation to the team at his final home, White Birch Communities. His nickname there quickly became "trouble." If you ever heard his sarcastic answers or saw his wry smile, you'll understand what the nursing team faced on a daily basis. He said he regretted not moving there sooner.

While he lived a hard life at times, Ray overcame many obstacles and created opportunities for his family to thrive. Looking forward to joining his beloved Patsy in Heaven, he was ready for the end of his time on Earth and to transition to the next phase.

In keeping with his no-fuss nature, Dad requested that no formal funeral services be held. He asked for a final ride and a good meal with his closest friends.

In lieu of flowers please jump on your bike or just roll down your windows, turn up your favorite tunes, and seek out the perfect cheeseburger in his memory.