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Larry Wray Obituary

Larry Lee Wray, 65, of Roanoke, Va., passed away suddenly on Sunday evening, November 7, 2010. He was a greeter at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital for 35 years, where he was known for his warm smile and kind demeanor on a daily basis. Larry was a member of First Baptist Church, and was a Veteran of the United States Air Force. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Texie Wray, and two brothers, Ronnie and Richard Wray. Surviving are his loving wife of 34 years, Susan Wray; a daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Jonathan Helms, of Chapel Hill, N.C.; four brothers, Frankie, Billy, Bobby, and Roger Wray and their families. Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday from Oakey's Roanoke Chapel with the Reverend John Cochran officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Carilion Clinic Foundation Sunshine Fund, P.O. Box 12946, Roanoke, Va. 24029. The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel.
Published by Roanoke Times from Nov. 9 to Nov. 10, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Larry Wray

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Ame Murray

November 3, 2020

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of a WONDERFULLY friendly, sweet man. I worked at the hospital with him for quite a few years and he was always there, outside rain / shine / snow.. Rest in Peace, Larry you will be greatly missed. Sincerely, Ame

Joseph Harris

November 4, 2019

Larry was a very nice man..always friendly and helpful to me! Miss him very much!

Ann Yokobosky

December 19, 2010

Susan, I am sorry to learn about Larry. Cousin Faye sent a note. When my sister and I were little and traveled to visit Grandma Mode, we had so much fun spending time with Larry and all the cousins. He was a great relative. It is so sad that he is gone. Sincerely, Ann (Weddell) Yokobosky

Cindy Rickman

November 29, 2010

I had the great pleasure of working with Larry Wray for 3 years when I worked at the Guest Services desk of CRMH and he was always smiling and very pleasant to me even when I was having a bad day he could make me smile everytime.

Lynda Mundy- Norris Miller

November 24, 2010

Larry had greeted and helped my family for over 15 years. He was the last one who helped my husband out of his car on 8/09/10, to enter the hospital for then his last time. My husband passed away on 8/15/10. He knew us my our names each time we pulled up. We just happened to be #1 valet car (when it was started), the #100, the 10,000. Which was quite unreal. He remembered us and the story so well. He was always so kind, and truly was one of then most remarkable persons we had ever met. I know he will be missed by all who knew him. I know my husband, Joe, was his greeter at heaven's gate when Larry got there.

Sara Southers

November 14, 2010

Larry always had this greeting when patients were going home Have a better day somewhere out of here. Such a kind person always

Nicole Sheppard

November 13, 2010

My mother was one of the recipients of Larry's warm smile and care on our frequent trips to the cancer center and hospital years and years ago. It was a blessing to be greeted by such a kind and generous person.

Vicki Palmer CRMH mailroom

November 12, 2010

I will miss Larry coming to the RMH mailroom always with his smile and kind words.
He touched so many lives patients, family and employees alike who passed through the doors of RMH. A true gentleman who loved people and gave so much of himself to help others!
God bless Larry's family and know that we feel your loss and we will miss him very much around RMH.

Min. Kathy Wade-Carson

November 12, 2010

Mr. Wray will be missed at the front doors of CRMH. He always had a smile in good weather and bad. God knew you had completed your mission here on earth so rest now, my brother, in heaven forevermore!

November 11, 2010

you will be missed by so many.
Deborah and Clinton Rogers

Pam Ferris

November 11, 2010

Your smile and kind greeting will certainly be missed by all who entered the front doors of Roanoke Memorial Hospital.God Bless you and your family.

Alex harris

November 11, 2010

Larry Wray was a great man! Alway's a smile for everyone..God bless your soul!

Craig Zackmann CPM '99 to '02

November 11, 2010

Rest in peace, Larry. You would never let me park where I wanted to, but your dedication will forever be unmatched.

M Wiley

November 10, 2010

Heartfelt condolences to the family and to the hospital family. I know you will miss him as will I and many others who visited the hospital. He was always so warm and friendly and would go out of his way to offer assistance. May God bless you all and strengthen you during this tremendously difficult time.

Patricia Slusser

November 10, 2010

Mr. Wray was always smiling when you came in and out of the hospital. No matter what the reason may be for you to be there he always made things seem better. He will be greatly missed.

Debora Hall

November 10, 2010

My deepest sympathy to the family. I deliver flowers to the hospital and seen his smiling face quite often. Larry will be missed.

Janie Robinson Meggers

November 10, 2010

Dear Susan and Family--How saddened I was to learn of Larry's passing. As you know, I've known your sister and your family for many years. When my 20 year old daughter was in the NICU for 79 days, and I was going to RMH multiple times a day, Larry always saw that I had a close-by parking spot and never failed to ask how Emilee was progressing. And likewise, over the years as my family and friends have used RMH, Larry always looked after me and always had a smile and a kind word. I referred to him as the gentle giant. I can only imagine what a loss this is to your family. Pleae accept my sincerest sympathy. Janie Robinson Meggers

Moneta Rescue

November 10, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Tracie McKenney

November 10, 2010

Rest in Peace Mr. Wray. I will miss seeing you outside the doors of Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Your smile & forever kindness always brightened my day.

November 10, 2010

Wow, what a person. Did not no him. But I would hope to live up to his standards... god bless.

Kay Moore

November 10, 2010

Larry Wray...was the very first person that ever kept my oldest son (besides my family)...when we would leave Zak at First Baptist Church, he screamed very loudly, until Larry picked him up, and comforted him. I will never forget walking in that Church nursery, and seeing that tiny little baby, all cuddled up in Larry's arms all quiet and happy...Larry is truly an angel shinning and smiling in Heaven...and we have lost an icon of a one great and gentle man. May God bless his entire family.
This world is so much better off by having Larry in it for the past 65 years.

Sherrie F

November 10, 2010

Mr. Wray was always smiling when you came in and out of the hospital. There were times I remember being in tears due to family illness and he always made sure to say a kind word of comfort. He was truly an angel. He touched so many lives. May God bless you and your family at this time of sorrow.

Cheryl Bolt

November 10, 2010

As a former frequent visitor to RMH, Mr. Wray always was a positive light in what was often a grim time. His bright smile, kind words, and caring encouragement will be missed.

Kathy & Tommy Grant& Family

November 10, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

C. W.

November 10, 2010

May the kindness you shared with so many be remembered and live on in the hearts of all who remember the smiley face stranger at the hospital...God Bless

November 10, 2010

you always had a smile and just the other say you said you missed me and hadn't seen me in a while , the little things make a big difference in our day

Chip Chiperson

November 10, 2010

This could not have happened to a better guy!!!

Yvonne Miller

November 10, 2010

As many other that have written messages, I did not know Mr.Wray personally however I have been a frequent visitor to RMH in the past few years for happy and sad events. I could always count on Mr.Wray to greet me and help me when I needed it with a big old smile and such kindness in his eyes. Mr Wray was a true Gentleman! My heart goes out to his family.

November 10, 2010

Larry was always such a blessing to the people he greeted and he made everyone feel welcome.

May the Lord bless and comfort you in the days and months ahead. Linda Whitaker, former employee of Carilion.

Ravenelle Brammer

November 10, 2010

I truly will miss the great gentleman as I know everyone else going in or out of the hospital will. My condolences to his family as we share in their loss.

Denise Adkins RN

November 10, 2010

Larry was the bright smiling face you saw as soon as you entered RMH. He had such a kind and caring personality and will be greatly missed. I hope that all the stories and memories will be a comfort to you and your family during your time of loss and in the future You and your family will be our prayers

Amanda Darby

November 10, 2010

I knew Mr. Wray because I worked at the store where he did his grocery shopping every week. He was a really sweet man and I am saddened to hear of his passing.

Sue Grubbs

November 10, 2010

Larry was so kind to my family and me while my husband was in intensive care. He helped my son get his wheel chair in and out of the car each day we visited. He got my car from parking lot each day. I will never forget his kindness, his smile & his most wonderful attitude. Unfortunately my husband died but I will never forget the kindness shown to my family by Larry. He will be missed by all. My heart goes out to his family.
Sue Grubbs

David Linkous

November 10, 2010

RMH has lost a true icon and the world has lost a true gentleman. I worked at the hospital for many years and still visit occaisionally. I can't imagine going in the front door and not seeing Larry's smile and friendly greeting. He will be truly missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him.

LaWanda Hester

November 10, 2010

I was sadden when I heard about Larry’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Larry. He made a huge impact on me. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

Visitor for years of Roanoke Memorial Hospital

November 10, 2010

I did not know him personally but I felt like I did. I will certainly miss his smile when I go to the hospital. God Bless you and your family.

David Jeter

November 10, 2010

Larry, You were truly "Carilion at its very finest" Someone will take your job but no one can ever replace you. Rest in peace my friend.

Dave Jeter, Vinton, VA

November 10, 2010

You will be missed.

November 10, 2010

Mr. Wray helped us numerous times when my mother was hospitalized at Roanoke Memorial. He always had a friendly smile and a kind word.
Lisa Martin...Wytheville VA

November 10, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to Susan and family during this sorrowful time. Larry was known for his great personality and friendly smile and will be sorely missed by all. God bless and keep you all in His tender care.
Leah Philpott, Surgery Scheduling, RMH

DEBBIE WHITT,JAMES

November 10, 2010

SO SORRY TO HEAR OF LARRY'S PASSING. GOD BE WITH ALL OF YOU. I KNOW GOD WILL COMFORT YOU. I KNOW LARRY WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.

November 10, 2010

Goodbye Larry you will be missed

carolyn krisha

November 10, 2010

I have to share another wonderful memory and that was Larry singing to the babies in the infant sunday school class.

Wayne Sowder

November 10, 2010

Sorry for your loss to your family and it is a sad day for RMH. I did not know him but, I often saw him whenever I went by RMH. To me the caring, gentlemanly manner that he exhibited and his trademark hats gave comfort to an untold number of people in way that is seldom seen anymore. I will not forget.

Vicki Stinnette, R.T.(R)(T)

November 10, 2010

Larry Wray, you were truly a unique individual. I have not worked at Carilion for 20 years, but you were one of the people that I remember most. I hope that when I die, people will remember me just as fondly as they will remember you. You were so kind to everyone, patients and staff. You will be remembered. May you rest in peace, but I know you will, for surely if anyone makes it to heaven,it will be you. Much respect and prayers to your family.

Kim Kays Sarver

November 10, 2010

Larry Wray was an incredible man. From all the times I spent at their house, he was always kind and such a gentle giant. He was always making us smile and laugh. Sarah and Susan, my heart goes out to both of you. I pray for the Lord to comfort you both in this hard time and I pray that you find peace in knowing that he is with the Lord. Let "HIM" be your strength in this time of need. I love you all.

Diane Law

November 10, 2010

Larry was an inspiration to all who knew him. His genuine gracious behavior was a reflection of love and respect for all those he came in contact with. It was indeed a pleasure having him on staff at Carilion for so many years. Larry will be missed, but remembered with the upmost respect. My prayers go out to his family for their loss.

November 10, 2010

Larry was a man of God and an inspiration to those whose lives he touched with his kindness. We started working at Roanoke Memorial the same year, and he and I spoke often. He was clearly devoted to Susan and Sarah, and beamed with joy when he talked of all that Sarah has accomplished. And he was so proud of his work - serving patients and their families was his mission in life. Well done friend. Mission accomplished. Heaven has added a bright and beautiful star. Larry will be missed.
Sandy Wilson, Roanoke, Virginia

Kathy Eichelberger, DVM

November 10, 2010

We send our thoughts and sympathy to the family. We at Animal Medical Assoc. always enjoyed seeing Mr. Wray when he brought in Coco or picked up her meds. We've lost a true gentleman.

Janet and Robert Stallard

November 10, 2010

Mr Larry, I was so shocked when I walk in the Hospital on Monday and saw that you had passed! You are going to be missed terrible! That smile,and those kind words. You always knew when someone was having a bad day and could bring a smile to their face! Thank you! Our thoughts and Prayers are with your family and all the staff at RMH! What a Angel he was here on earth!

Mike Breiner

November 10, 2010

Even though I don't visit RMH as much as I have in the past, Larry would ALWAYS remember my name and asked about my family. He had a heart of gold and will be missed.

Leijiah Cooper

November 10, 2010

You are probably greeting saints at the gates of heaven, Larry! God bless your family. You were a shining example of a lovely human being. Rest, as you should, in peace.

Cheryl Beckner

November 10, 2010

Mr. Wray was at the hospital working the day we took our first son home from the hospital almost 19 years ago. He took great care in helping us put Joshua in his car seat and helping me to get into the car as well. Over the years, everytime we went to RMH and saw him, I would tell my son the story. Mr. Wray left a wonderful memory for our family of a caring person who loved people and showed it every day. I am so sorry for your loss and will be praying for your family. He will be greatly missed!

November 10, 2010

Larry we will miss you now and forever . When we had to come to the hospital it was your face and greeting we sought and your amazing gift of friendship, as shown in your unselfish attitude, and exceptionally delicious Friendship cakes, given out to those you could help will always be remembered. Read Lunsford

Prestige Limousine

November 10, 2010

A real example of a kind human being.

Rita

November 10, 2010

Well Done Larry...You were a pillar of how we all should live. Smiling and being kind to all. God Bless the family and know that he left a legacy behind. Everyone will always remember the "Greeter at CRMH"!

Sara Southers

November 10, 2010

We'll miss you Larry. You made things better

judy Booker

November 10, 2010

Larry was always a kind and thoughtful person,always helping someone at the doors of RMH...He will be sadly missed..
RIP..Larry;.....

November 10, 2010

Although I didn't know Mr. Wray personally, I always looked for him when I passed by the hospital. He exuded kindness, patience, and warmth, and he will be missed by so many.
P Myles

Trish Newby

November 10, 2010

One of the nicest people I have ever met. He always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. My prayers go out to his family.

Michele Flippo

November 10, 2010

I did not know Mr. Wray personally, but I have not forgotten him. Years ago my daughter attended First Baptist Church preschool and I remember Mr. Wray coming to pick up Ms. Jane, who was one of my d's teachers. I would see him in the afternoons. We never had a conversation, but the air he had about him was nothing but joy, kindness and hard working. 65 is still young. It's true what they say, seems like only the good die young. Rest in peace Mr. Wray and may God comfort your family during his difficult time.

November 10, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Noma Knopp

November 10, 2010

To the Wray Family,
Mr. Wray was the sweetest man, he will sadly be miss, you all have my deepest sympathy and may he rest in peace..
[email protected]

Cathy Snider

November 10, 2010

I have been at Carilion for over 16 years and Mr. Wray was one of the first people I met. He was kind, gracious and a true gentleman in every sense of the word. No matter how long it would be before our daily paths would cross, he would always remember me by name. My heart felt lifted just to be around him. May God keep you in peace until you meet again.

Syrus Solomon-Tafari

November 10, 2010

Larry has got to be one of the friendliest and most cheerful people I have ever met. His family is in my prayers.

November 10, 2010

I fell like now he will be helping St Peter at the Golden Gates. Praise God for Larry and his Christian Witness. I will see him again ....

George Stone

November 10, 2010

I did not know Larry personally but saw him frequently as I made delivery to the hospital. I always thought that "There...is a true Southern Gentleman" He just had an aura about him. He always saw me on my way with a wave and a smile. He will truly be missed by me.

Amy Sinclair RN

November 10, 2010

As a RN at RMH, nothing warmed my heart more than seeing Larry each day, speaking to patients, their families and staff. He remembered my Papaw years after he had received treatment at the cancer center. Larry was an amazing soul. How lucky we are that he shared his legacy with us. May God richly bless you and comfort you in your time of sorrow.

Jackie Porter

November 10, 2010

Larry will be missed by so many. With our many stress filled trips to the hospital it was so nice to see him, to see the caring in his eyes, to have him rush up to help. We were particularly touched when he came to my sister Laura's funeral. Larry, Laura and many others are no doubt catching up in heaven this week. Perhaps Larry will continue to give care and comfort by welcoming each of us into heaven as we are called home.

amanda vaught

November 10, 2010

This must have been a truly blessed man. He gave his heart to others every day. I hope a lot of others follow his rule of thumb. May god bless everyone in the family and everyone that he touched.

Deneen Grisetti

November 10, 2010

He truly was an icon. Whenever you saw that cowboy hat, you knew you would see and get a big smile. When my husband was in for heart surgery, every morning that I saw him he always made me smile. He will be truly missed. And it will never be the same going to RMH.

Cathy Hurst

November 10, 2010

My favorite Larry quote:
"I'll see YOU later!'
He always made me smile, much love and God bless to Susan, Sarah, Jonathan, Jane & Aunt Jean

Norma Dempsey

November 10, 2010

I have had the pleasure of knowing Larry as a hospital employee for 20 years. He always went out of his way to help where ever he could. Always willing to help any guest. He will be missed. Praying for your family.

Ratcliffe Family

November 9, 2010

Occasionally we are graced with the presence of an earth bound angel.
They are unable to stay with us for long, but while they do, they bring unprecendented joy and happiness to all they touch.
While they are here, we bask in their goodness and marvel at their contribiutions to the world.
When they leave, we are left with the devastation that comes with losing such a wonderful being....
the earth bound angels are not ours to keep.
They are ours to enjoy, learn from, and behold until they return home.
Larry was truly this and so much more.
At this time of sorrow,
may these truths sustain you...
Your loved one will always
be as close as a memory,
and the God of all comfort
will always be as
close as a prayer.

Sue Nixon

November 9, 2010

Susan, So sorry for your loss. May God be close to you at this time. Larry was a special person and had promised Johnny a cake just 2 weeks ago when Johnny was at the hospital visiting. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all.

Peggy Assenat

November 9, 2010

Larry was an amazing icon at RMH. Always a kind word or smile. He will truly be missed.

Teresa Turner

November 9, 2010

Larry was a special person. He made everyone who entered Carilion feel special and so important. He always had a smile and a word of encouragement. The hospital will not be the same without him there. My prayers go out to his family and friends, he will truly be missed. Carilion has lost a treasure.

Patricia Collins

November 9, 2010

I knew Larry from my 26 years at CRMH. He and my departed husband would talk about Alaska and he let Bob view some wonderful video from his time there. I just saw him 2 weeks and we talked about the hospital and old time. My thoughts and prayers go out to you, Mrs Wray and the rest of you family. Larry is now greeting people in heaven.

Carolyn Nelson

November 9, 2010

Roanoke has lost a true shining star. Whenever I see the Mill Mountain star above RMH, I will remember Larry and his kindness and warm smile.

D A

November 9, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

MARIE MELDRUM

November 9, 2010

TO THE FAMILY OF MR. WRAY, I DID NOT KNOW HIM PERSONALLY BUT I KNEW HIM FROM BEING A GREETER AT RMH. HE WAS A VERY NICE MAN WHO HELPED EVERYONE. I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.HE WILL BE MISSED BY EVERYONE THAT VISITS RMH.

Deputy S. L. Bell (RCSO)

November 9, 2010

Mr. Wray was always helpful when I needed to park my Sheriff's Department vehicle for hospital related business. He will be missed.

Demetrius Terry

November 9, 2010

We're surely going to miss him. He wasn't just a co-worker to us. He was a great friend and someone you really looked forward to seeing everyday.

Debra Kanode

November 9, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Larry will truly be missed here at the Hospital. He was so dedicated to helping others and always had a smile on his face. Just last week he was telling me that he was going to be a grandpa. He was just so excited about that. He touched so many lives. He was a wonderful, hard working, and caring person. He will truly be missed by all that knew him.

Arnold and Nancy Quesenberry

November 9, 2010

So sorry for the loss of a sweet man. Susan please know we are praying for you and your family. You guys were very special to us.

Greg Sharp

November 9, 2010

I will always remember his infectious smile and friendly banter whenever I saw "Mr. Wray."
We should all be so fortunate in life to find our calling, and enjoy it as he did. Rest in peace my friend.

Jannet Turner

November 9, 2010

Susan,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Larry was so special to many of us and will be missed by all who knew him. Give me a call if you need anything.

Becky Cribb

November 9, 2010

Larry always gave a warm greeting and a smile when I walked through the door at Roanoke Memorial. I appreciate his hard work and dedication - as well as his wonderful spirit. He exemplified what is "good" and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers for your family during you loss.

November 9, 2010

We join your many friends in sending our deepest sympathy at this difficult time. We are so grateful for having known Larry through First Baptist Church and his work at Carilion. He was one of a kind who made this world a better place!
God's peace----
John and Beverly Lambert

Charlotte Brooks

November 9, 2010

My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. Larry will be sadly missed by Carilion Clinic employees, patients, and visitors. He was the epitome of customer service. He always put the needs of others before himself.

LouAnn Howell

November 9, 2010

Susan,
I saw Larry everyday during my decade at Roanoke Memorial, and he always had a smile and was eager to help everyone else. He will be missed, and know that your coworkers will help you get through this difficult time. Prayers for you and your family.

Linda & John Morgan

November 9, 2010

Susan and Sarah,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are here for you anytime you need us. We were blessed to have known Larry. We have many wonderful memories, including being the recipient of many friendship cakes. I know Ruby was glad to greet him when he got to heaven. She loved him too.
Linda and John

Evelyn Huffman

November 9, 2010

I am saddened to see this (tall) southern gentleman's death. He will be missed by so many, some never knowing his name but they knew his kind face and manner. Prayers and blessings to the family.

Dianne Waterman

November 9, 2010

I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Larry always helped me out with parking, with getting my mother to the car and was the first to with a hug and condelences when I came out of the hospital crying when mom had passed.
He was quick with a smile and a kind word, he will be greatly missed by those who's life he touched everyday at the front door of the hospital.

I know he's greeting folks in heaven and making their day a little brighter.

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318 Church Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016

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