Ray W. Thompson |
| Posted 2015-07-28 by Sharla |
| The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Saturday, July 25, 2015 Ray W. Thompson continued on his journey beyond life on Monday, June 29, 2015. Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1928, Ray's family included a brother, Wayne; a sister, Carol; another adopted sister, Rose; and 22 other children his parents fostered. Ray met the love of his life, Lois, and they were married 65 years. They had four children - Rick, Dawn, Andy and Randy. Ray also had four grandchildren, Lindsay, Kyle, Andrew and Emily; and one great-granddaughter, Savannah. Three exchange students alternately joined Ray's family, two of whom stayed in contact for over 15 years. Tom and Michal are still considered surrogate grandsons. After a busy career teaching elementary, high school and college classes, Ray retired to Chino Valley 30 years ago, where he had a variety of jobs, as an EMT driver and for a lumberjack business, and the Red Cross. He volunteered to work at YRMC as a security guard, and at People Who Care as a driver for community neighbors. He lately volunteered as a receptionist at YRMC. Everyone who knew Ray commented that they were a better person for having known him. He was like a pebble in a pond by extending his love and acceptance in ripples to everyone he touched and his guidance resonates with young people today. Maya Angelou once said, "It isn't what you say. It isn't what you do for others. It's how you make others feel!" Ray made everyone feel wonderful. A memorial service for community friends and family is being planned for Oct. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gabby's in Windy Valley Plaza. Information provided by survivors. |
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