IN MEMORIAM: Edward Ray, 81;
Richfield Water Superintendent
WEST WINFIELD – Edward W. Ray, 81, of West Winfield, retired Richfield Springs water superintendent, passed away on March 15, 2016.
He was born on April 13, 1934, in Gilbertsville, to Charles and Florence Ray. The fifth child of five brothers and six sisters, he was affectionately nicknamed “Brother” by friends and family.
He attended Richfield Springs Central School.
Ed served in the Korean War with Headquarters Company, 65th Battalion Combat Engineers, 25th Division, reaching the rank of staff sergeant.
On July 2, 1955, he married Virginia Wells on July 2, 1955, in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, West Winfield.
Ed was self-employed for 12 years as a machinist and tool maker before joining the Village of Richfield Springs.
He was also a member of the Lion’s Club and Golden Dragons (because he crossed the meridian).
Ed and Virginia were blessed with six children: Yvonne; Diane (Thomas) Mayne of Richfield Springs; Bonnie; Nanette (Robert) Jablonski of Cedarville; Kim (Dennis) Euler of Sprakers and James of West Winfield. He was predeceased by daughters Yvonne, Bonnie and Nanette.
In addition to his wife and three children, he is survived by three siblings, six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be 10-11 a.m. Saturday, March 19, at Burlington Flats Baptist Church, with Pastor Jay Henderson officiating. The funeral will begin at 11.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of Oneida, Herkimer and Eastern Madison Counties in Ed’s memory.