Raymond D. Erby

Raymond D. Erby, 84, of Jonesboro, passed away August 6, 2009 at his home. He was born March 10, 1925 at Judd Hill to Jefferson and Jeanie Erby. He was a charter member of Valley Ridge Baptist Church where he served as Deacon. He was a Sunday School teacher for 12 years. He retired from Dillard’s after 25 years of service. He also served in the Navy as a combat medic. He entered the Navy in 1942 and served his country in World War II for 3 ½ years. Before working at Dillard’s, he was a school teacher at Manila, Harrisburg Central, and in Flint, Michigan.

He was preceded in death by one daughter, Ruby Jean Allen, four sisters, and two brothers.

He is survived by his wife Maxine Erby of the home; two daughters, Charlotte & Michael Rose, Patricia & Terry George; two sons, Dr. David & Jala Erby, Michael Erby and Sheila Erby. He is also survived by grandsons, Keith Allen, Sean & Julie Allen, Mathew & Kim Erby, Christopher & Jamie George, David Wayne Erby; granddaughters, Jessica & Eric Johnson, Kelly & Marco Mendes, Brandi Erby, Melissa & Adam Bodeker; great grandchildren, Dylan, Jakob, Dawson, Nikolas, Christian, Jaden, Christa, Samantha, Mattie, Olivia, Summer, and Erika; brother, Columbus Birdsell; nephew, Junior & Imogene Rawls of Bay; and many other nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Saturday at 3:00 p.m. at Valley Ridge Baptist Church with Brother Bobby Floyd officiating. Burial will follow at Willis Cemetery. Emerson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Active pallbearers will be Christopher George, Mathew Erby, David W. Erby, Keith Allen, Sean Allen, Larry Rawls, and Eric Johnson.

Visitation will be Saturday from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Valley Ridge Baptist Church.

For lasting memorials, the family asks that consideration be given to Valley Ridge Baptist Church, 1707 Christian Valley Drive, Jonesboro, Arkansas, 72404.