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.jpeg) HAMPTON - William F. "Billy" Ray lost his battle with cancer on Thursday, June 2, 2016. He left us peacefully and surrounded with love. Billy will be forever missed! He is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence D. & Elizabeth W. Ray; and brother, James L. Ray. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 48 years, Jacklyn D. Ray; his daughter, Kimberly Ray Gerczak; and his most prized possessions, his dearly loved grandchildren: Kaleigh LeAnn, Kaci Paige, Kobe Jacob, and Karli Ray Gerczak. He also leaves behind many dear friends that we like to call "framily". Bill served in Vietnam from 1968-1969, and was a brave soldier; he served his country proud. He was an avid drag racer and loved to go fast. He always loved a good joke and to make people laugh. There was nothing that "The Wizard" couldn't fix. Heaven has gained an amazing man with one fast and loud dragster! They better watch out up there! Race In peace Daddy! I love you! Xoxo, Goose The family will receive friends from 4:00 - 5:00 PM, Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home in downtown Hampton, with a memorial service beginning at 5:00 PM, in the Funeral Home Chapel.
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Robert Howard McVicker (1966)
Kecoughtan High School has lost another great Warrior. May you R.I.P. my friend.
I grew up knowing Billy since the 8th grade at Thorpe Jr. High. Talked to him through
the years and will have lots of memories. I'll never forget the night that Billy,
Greg Kohlenhoefer and I went to the L.A.F.B. library for research on a term paper.
The day he came by my house to show off his bride. How he used to come by and
we would pitch horseshoes. He was pretty good, I'm just sorry that I never let him win.
Billy, I will never forget you. You were always there with a helping hand, an answer, an
ear for listening, smile and always a kind word.
I will miss you my friend. May the Angels of Heaven hold you tight until I get there.
Donald Earl Schappell (1966)
Billy Ray and I were good friends and car buddies growing up in our neighborhood and spent countless hours getting his 57 Chevy faster and faster. I grew up with his entire family, his Mother as my sixth grade teacher and his Dad as my only ride to the shipyard at the start of my work career. I learned so much through our friendships, his Dad said you can ride with me but if you are not standing on the corner when I get there, walk to work! His Mother's class was both inspiring and enjoyable, what a great storyteller.
We have lost a great guy and fellow classmate. RIP Billy Ray! Jackie, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Alice Ann Augustine (Grady) (1966)
Sad news. I have many fond memories of Bill. He was always fun and caring. And, he would really do anything for you. Fun days riding in his crazy Morris Minor, skim-boarding at Grandview Beach, and just hanging around eating fries at McDonald's, and of course, being my prom date. Hope it was a quiet passing.