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RAYMOND GHOLSON Obituary
I was born in Petersburg, Va., on August 24, 1964, to Raymond, Sr. and Elsie Gholson. I grew up in Dinwiddie County, attending Dinwiddie public schools, graduating from Dinwiddie High School and at an early age, joined and was baptized at Mt. Poole Baptist Church, Ford, Va., later regularly attending Kingdom Community Church, Crewe, Va. Because of my parents, I, along with my siblings maintained a standard of good manners, being polite to our elders and always respectful to others because we wanted to be respected.
After graduating from high school in 1984, I attended ECPI University in Richmond, Va.; John Tyler Community College, earning an Associate Degree; and Virginia State University, earning my BS degree in Engineering Technology. After my employment at VSU, I began my career with Owens and Minor/Dell Services as an EDI Systems Analyst.
I have had a wonderful life which I shared with my lovely wife, Sonya and our children Raven (Moét), Raymond, III (Lil Ray), and our recent granddaughter, Lyla. The highlight of my life was when I spent time with my father, my best friend, running those hounds and taking them in the woods trying to get that trophy to show to my family. I enjoyed playing sports growing up. If it wasn't baseball, it was basketball. This was a way to share quality time with family and friends. What a joy it is to have family and friends to share the good times and bad and not complain.
I enjoyed my life and want to thank some of those that made this possible. My A- list would include my family and close survivors-my wife, my children/grandchild, my parents, my sisters, my beloved friends that were like brothers to me, Russell Gholson, Jr., Gerald Williams and Chris Brown, my motorcycle buddies, my work staff and those of you who I hold dear to my heart.
My survivors are my wife, Sonya, children Raven and Raymond, III , my parents, Raymond and Elsie Gholson; my sisters, Pastor Lisa Taylor (Minister Jermaine Taylor), Sherry Ellis and Nacole Mason (Charles); my godchildren, John Madison, IV, Amyia Mason and Miles Talley; mother-in-law, May Barber; father-in-law, SFC (retired) Earl Barber Sr.; sister-in-law, Sharon Harper; brother-in-law, SFC Earl Barber, Jr. (Army retired); grandmother-in-law, Eva Baxter; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, September 23, 2015, at Smyrna Baptist Church, 18971 Carson Road, Dinwiddie, with Pastor Lisa Taylor, eulogizing. Burial will commence at Mt. Poole Baptist Church, 9515 Baltimore Road, Ford, Va. Public viewing will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2015, at the Petersburg Chapel - Johnson Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and at the church one hour before on the day of service.
Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Joseph M. Johnson and Son Funeral Home, 530 S. Sycamore Street, Petersburg, (804) 863-4411. Online condolences to the family can be made at www.johnsonservices.us.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for RAYMOND GHOLSON
Jamie Coomer
October 7, 2015
I was so sorry and shocked to hear of Ray's passing. I always enjoyed working with Ray as a Dell teammate at Owens & Minor.
He was such a wonderful person, always so cheerful and friendly.
My thought are with you all.
AL MOORE
October 4, 2015
TO(CB)AND THE GHOLSON FAMILY,I WAS SHOCKED TO HEAR OF RAYMOND'S PASTING.I RECENTLY RETIRED FROM THE CITY OF PETERSBURG AND WAS IN THE TIDEWATER AREA TAKING CARE OF RENTAL PROPERTY.IT WAS A TRUE PLEASURE TO HUNT WITH YOU AND YOUR FATHER FOR YEARS AT THE CARSON HUNT CLUB.REST IN PEACE(BRO)IN THE WONDERFUL HUNTING GROWNS IN HEAVEN.(CB)YOU WERE A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING, MAY GOD TRULY BLESS YOU.THANKS FOR BEING A FRIEND.
Aunt Lottie Tucker
September 25, 2015
To the Gholson family. You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your family member(my nephew). I loved him as well. He will be a missed person. That smile and warm hello. God please put your loving arms around the Gholson family. I love you all.
Thank you,
Aunt Lottie Tucker
[email protected]
Mr.&Mrs. Ronald Campbell
September 25, 2015
Russell,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, in this time of the loss of your family member.
You have been a close friend of our family, for many years, and are a part of our family. If there is anything we can do just call we are here for you.
In Chirstian Love,
The Campbell Family
Thank you,
Mr.&Mrs. Ronald Campbell
[email protected]
Cheryl Northam
September 25, 2015
amily, I was in MD (my middle sister Carla had been in the hospital for 4 weeks) when I got the news and I looked at Momma in a daze. Yet, I was reminded that we know not the hour nor the day...we only know that "One" day we shall see HIS face and it is what we have done with our "dash" that makes a difference. As hearts are heavy, my prayers for you all is that the sweet spirit of God fill your heart with peace & comfort in every way during this difficult time. "The peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts & minds through Christ Jesus." Phil 4:7
With heartfelt sympathy & prayer,
Cheryl & family
(Clarence, Ada & Pastor Kevin)
Thank you,
Cheryl Northam
[email protected]
Ronald Hartman
September 25, 2015
Ray was a very special person,I always enjoyed being in his company.He and his Dad are two of the finest men I have ever met.May his family be blessed with fond memories of him.
Thank you,
[email protected]
Betty Brown
September 25, 2015
I was shocked and sadden to hear of the passing of Raymond. I met him in the very early 1990's when we worked together at VSU. He always had a smile on his face, that I will always remember. I had just talked to him and Russell a few months ago when I ran into them at Picadilly's. He always gave me a hug. My heart is still heavy. My sincerest sympathy to his family. Rest in Peace my friend.
Mark Mckensie
September 25, 2015
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Gholson family. "MAY YOU REST IN PEACE BROTHER" the memory of you will always be with me. Thank you for all those wonderful times we shared, playing A sport we both loved (basketball) You're one of the best ever.
Katasha Gilliam White
September 24, 2015
To the Gholson Family - so sorry to hear about the sudden passing of Raymond. He was a kind person and always with a smile that lit up a room. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that God will keep you in His care and dry your tears. I could not be at the funeral but has been there in spirit since I was told of his passing. Much Love to each of you. God Bless you, always.
Ricky Staten
September 23, 2015
To the Gholson family sorry for your lose he will be miss.
BJ Nivens
September 23, 2015
My prayers go out to the Gholson family, he was a very nice Man, I use to see him in Chester with his Bike friends, and Hunting with his Dad in Dinwiddie, we would talk at times, like they say he had a smile like the SUN he will truly be miss, God has another Angel in his Kingdom now, Again God bless the Gholson family.
Tawfiqah F Al- Muakhkhir
September 23, 2015
Dear Uncle Raymond & Aunt Elsie, we are very saddened to hear about Junialways loving and kind..Hiis smile and personality would light up a room.We could not be there but we are with you in spirit. God Bless
The Gholsons in Phila
Bea , Frenciie Richie. ,Aliya '&
Grandkids
Ericka Ward
September 23, 2015
Love & condolences to my cousin Sonya and the Gholson family. We are praying for you, God bless you and your son, I'm here if you need me. May the fond memories give you comfort in the times you need it most. Love you!!
September 23, 2015
I met Ray 18 years ago, when he started working here at Owens & Minor on Jackie Dyers team. He always had that huge smile on his face and never said anything negative about anyone. We also played together on the O&M co-ed softball team together, and what an outstanding ball player he was. I was so sadden last Friday when I got an email of Ray suddenly passing Thursday evening playing basketball, just one more thing he loved to do. I am still in shock. Although he started working from home, I havent seen him in a while, but Jackie and I are very good friends, and that allowed Ray and I to become close. Jackie and I came together last night to see you Ray Ray, and you looked so at peace. I was able to meet your beautiful wife for the first time, along with your son, mom and dad. 18 years of us knowing each other has been great, and I will surely miss you. So until next time, when I see you standing at the rainbow.
Pam Updyke(Borill)
Henrico,VA
Wayne and Karen (Lisa Manson) Brooks
September 23, 2015
Praying you ALL Peace to bring Comfort, much Courage to face the days ahead and so many Loving memories to forever hold in your hearts!
Anita "Necie" Pettaway
September 23, 2015
May God be you in the passing of your loved one.
Audrey McCray
September 23, 2015
To Sherry and all your family so sorry to hear about Raymond. He was such a nice spirit to be around to laugh and have fun. May God Bless all of you during your sad time. Class of "85"
Dinwiddie High School Class of 1984
September 23, 2015
Gholson Family, our hearts were saddened to hear about the passing of our beloved classmate. His warm, loving spirit and bright smile will always be remembered. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Barbara Banks
September 23, 2015
Raymond was a genuine, kind person. He was always the same whenever you saw him. I will always remember his smile. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. MAY HE IMPART COMFORT AND PEACE TO THE FAMILY.
Mark Ausse
September 22, 2015
Sonya & Family,
Ray was a wonderful man who will be missed by many. My family and I send our most sincere condolences at this difficult time. Remember and cherish all the good that you shared with Ray.
Jean Ascari
September 22, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I will surely miss working with Ray at Owens and Minor. The consummate gentleman even when delivering bad news on an issue. His expertise on systems is irreplaceable.
Rose E. Mason-Holland
September 22, 2015
May God continue to bless the Gholson Family, to strengthen and to heal in His Name. I am praying for you all. Many blessings to a loving, kindhearted and beautiful family. Enjoy your memories of Ray.
September 22, 2015
I pray that God covers you all during this time of bereavement. He will be missed.
Sonya Tucker Long & Family
Linda Pratt
September 22, 2015
I so sorry to hear of Raymond Jr.passing my throught and prayers are with all of you.May God walk with during this difficult love.
clint hawkes
September 22, 2015
What a nice young man clint and family
September 22, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
September 22, 2015
As I sat weeping on Friday, when I received the news about Ray, I finally realized God only takes the best. And, Ray was the best at everything he did. I will always remember the day I met Ray. I interviewed him and hired him as an EDI Systems Analyst at Owens & Minor. I knew he was special that day, and from then on he was Sunshine Ray to me, because not only did he have a good heart and so much knowledge, he lit up the room with that smile of his. RIP Ray - I will never forget you and I know that smile is lighting up Heaven. Jackie Dyer/former Owens&Minor
Rebecca Perry
September 22, 2015
Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God's love and peace surround you and rejoice in the God living life he lived.
Robin Tucker-Ellis
September 22, 2015
My deepest condolences are extended to the Gholson family for the passing of your loved one Raymond Jr. May God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Cherish all of your precious memories that shared together and it shall bring joy to your hearts.
Jeanette Redden
September 22, 2015
Words cannot even begin to say what a true blessing Ray was to all people. His infectious laugh, smile, talents, and advice were always appreciated during times of working and playing softball. Family and friends can truly be proud of him and all of his accomplishments. My heart goes out to you for your great loss. May you all be lifted by the many prayers during this very difficult time.
September 22, 2015
To the Gholson family and friends, you have my deepest condolenses during this very difficult time. Ray was a very kind man who was always a pleasure to be around and a good friend to my husband. I pray that God wraps his arms around you all and may you find peace knowing that he is resting with the Lord.
Ajanet & Michael Ortiz
Larry Brown
September 22, 2015
So sorry to hear about your loss. My family and I will be praying for you all. We have also loss love ones that were and still is, very close to us. I can truly say that God will comfort you all in a way you never thought possible. He makes no mistakes and takes care of them all who loves Him. We all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, but if we get our houses in order, we will all meet again. We all have an appointment with death and that is one appointment we will not miss. Continue to be strong and remember, when we all get to heaven what a day of rejoicing that will be. When we all see Jesus, we'll sing and shout the victory. God bless this family and Rest In Peace my friend. Larry T. Brown Sr. and Family.
Cynthia, Mikayela & Miles Talley
September 22, 2015
To know him was truly to love him. To Sonya and the Gholson Family: Our hearts were truly saddened to hear of the passing of Raymond (GoGo). I pray that God will wrap his arms around each of you and bring you comfort during this difficult time. He was an exemplary human being and Godfather to my son. A real man. May he rest in eternal peace.
Therese Dodge
September 22, 2015
To Sonya and the Gholson family, words cannot express the sadness I experienced when I heard of Ray's passing. Ray was a joy to know; always upbeat with a huge smile on his face. I will remember that smile forever. Ray blessed the lives of all who knew himhe made the world a better place just by being himself. Hold the memories of him close in your heart.
Blessing to you all.
Donald Brown
September 22, 2015
May God bring your family peace in this time of loss. My deepest sympathy. God bless.
Tina Mason
September 22, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family. May GOD watch over and give you strength during this time.
September 22, 2015
To Sonya and the Gholson Family, may the peace of God be with you. May the love of Jesus Christ heal all broken hearts and may the Holy Spirit guide you for the rest of your life.
~B. Rae Morgan
Ford, Virginia
Gary Wilkerson
September 22, 2015
Rest in peace
Gary Wilkerson
September 22, 2015
Our family was saddened to hear of the passing of a long term friend. We trust and believe that God knows best. May you rest in peace
Gary & Natàlie Wilkerson
pam farley
September 22, 2015
To the family and friends my prayers go out to each of you. Raymond from our school days to Adulthood a warm smile and a conversation to help you move on with your day. May you find comfort and strength in the days to come and continue to hold on to the Memories for they will last a lifetime.
Patrice Brown-Allen
September 22, 2015
To Nikki & Sherry so sorry to hear of the passing of your brother. I know all too well what it feels like to go through this but trust & believe it takes time but it does get better. Keeping the family in my thoughts & prayers.
Joyce Woodard
September 22, 2015
I am saddened to hear of Raymond's passing. He was a great person and always had a smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.
Christine Elder
September 21, 2015
so many memories growing up together all of us together as kids you are a cousin that I will always hold dear to my heart. miss you cuz.
Linda Goode
September 21, 2015
My heartfelt sympathy to the Gholson family. You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Deacon Pat Jackson
September 21, 2015
My prayer is that God will give you peace that passes all understanding my prayers and thoughts are with you at this time .
Cynthia White
September 21, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Raashaun Wilson
September 21, 2015
Just a man that you knew loved his family and life. I will always remember him filming every service for his sister Pastor Lisa at Kingdom Community Church. A person that was truly loved and respected by everybody he encounter and will be truly missed but never forgotten.
Millie James
September 21, 2015
I remember when Ray first came to work at Owens & Minor and I knew then he was a very special person. It's been a long journey with a wonderful person. He was a friend to all and very supportive of everyone personally and professionally. He loved his family and was very proud of them.
Comfort is knowing that those who have lived in our hearts are never really gone. As long as we keep them with us, in our hearts and our thoughts, they will be with us always. May God walk with you during this difficult time.
Brian Gallavan
September 21, 2015
A tremendous man, friend, coworker, and leader. He was super proud of his family. I can't remember a time when he was not upbeat or positive.
Marilyn Williams
September 20, 2015
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ray Gholson during this difficult time. Earth has no sorrows that heaven cannot heal. We pray God will continue to wrap his arms around and provide you all the strength to endure. God riches blessings upon you.
Grace Rhodes
September 20, 2015
The Rhodes Family sends our deepest sympathy to the family. May God continue to bless you
Mr. & Mrs Dwayne H Gilliam
September 19, 2015
Keep trusting in God and everything will be all right.
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