Raymond Arnold Vorus

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ray Vorus of Magnolia, DE. Ray passed away at the age of 86 on Friday July 18, 2025 while at home with family, after a long period of illness. Through our sadness at his loss, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the years we shared with him.
Ray was born and raised in Memphis, TN. He was preceded in death by his parents Marie Wallace Carr and DeWitt Vorus from Memphis, his brother James E. Vorus of California, and his step-sister Joanne Tenpenny of TN.
Ray is survived by his devoted wife, Pat Murphy Vorus, who shared his life for 41 years and now who holds him in her heart. He is also survived by his three children - Sandy Vorus Richardson (Randy), Susan E. Vorus, and Scott H. Vorus from Memphis, three granddaughters and seven great-grandchildren. His step-sister, Jeania Howard (Lee), resides in Evans, Georgia.
Ray also leaves behind his cherished sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law who always treated him like a brother, which touched him greatly, as well as treasured nephews, nieces and dear friends. We are indebted to family and friends who supported us through the challenges of his illness for their kindness.
Ray was born in Memphis, TN and though he moved to Maryland years ago, he maintained his southern charm even into his illness. He was an ethical man who detested injustice in any form. One of his heroes was Nelson Mandela.
Ray graduated from Messick HS and holds a BS and a MEd from the University of Memphis. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He had a broad range of career experiences. Before retirement, he was owner of Ray Vorus Antiques and Books for about 30 years. He enjoyed the excitement of the hunt for special treasures, and the many years doing antiques shows on the east coast with his dearest friends Doris and Lloyd Schwartz. He and Doris also had a presence in several shops in the DC area. Their friendship was a true blessing. Prior to his career in Antiques, Ray held a position with the American Psychological Association in certification of University programs, where he initiated a trial of a four-day work week uncommon at that time. Prior to APA, he held a position at Emory & Henry College in Virginia, American Red Cross in Nashville, and earlier as Alumni Director for Pi Kappa Alfa Fraternity in Memphis.
Ray was politically active in his early years, and found other ways to contribute to his community over time, serving on the Gaywood Civic Association Board in Silver Spring, MD and as the President of the Board of the Art Institute and Gallery in Salisbury, MD, where he was active in establishing the Arts and Entertainment District in Salisbury and served on the CCART Foundation Board.
Ray loved art and developed an eclectic collection of artworks. He especially appreciated the work of local artists on the lower eastern shore, some of whom became friends. He was proud of his small collection of Rockwell Kent artworks. Perhaps Kent's paintings inspired his love of the beauty of Maine, but he also loved Kent's illustrations and prints. Ray spent years collecting beautiful art glass, antique cordial glasses and pottery. His early interest in architecture led to a special appreciation of the work of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Ray greatly enjoyed the few trips made to England, Ireland and Scotland guided by family or friends, as well as trips to the Maine Coast.
Ray had a wry sense of humor, and would often move small items around in the house as a joke, to see how long it would take Pat to discover them. His comedy interests ranged from W.C. Fields to Alf, and his musical interests from Jazz to Willie Nelson.
Ray brought something unique to our family and he will be greatly missed. As we say goodbye, words from Isaiah 40:31 sustain us: "They will soar as with eagles' wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint."
Plans for a private celebration of life at a future date are in process. If desired, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of choice.