Roger Dale Ray

Roger Dale Ray, known to many as “Papa,” age 61, of Jonesboro, departed this life on Sunday, March 22, 2009, surrounded by his loving family and friends in the comfort of his home.

Mr. Ray was born in Jonesboro on October 15, 1947, into the family of the late Walter and Charlene Ray. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Barry Ray.

Mr. Ray proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was retired from the Canadian-Pacific (Soo-Line) Railroad. He was an active member of the Jonesboro Veteran’s Support Group and was an avid reader and historian. Roger enjoyed fishing, and most of all, spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Mary Ray, of the home; their children: Melody Navarro and her husband Frank of Berwyn, Illinois; Anthony Walker and his wife Becky of Jonesboro, and Theresa Walker and significant other Jerry Mayfield of Jonesboro. One sister, Deborah McCollum and her husband Jim of Lyons, Illinois; 7 grandchildren: Erica, Jessica, Anthony, Spencer, Julia, Janeane, and Katie; and numerous aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon, March 26, 2009, at 2:00 at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Rev. John Roy Soward and Rev. Patty Soward officiating. Burial will follow with military honors at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery.

Active pallbearers include: Eddie James, George Johnson, Dwayne Price, Robert Long, Herbert Wise and David Rainwater.

Honorary pallbearers include all of his brothers from the Jonesboro Veterans Support Group, Ms. Mai Snow and John Toomey.

Visitation will be held Thursday afternoon from 1:00-2:00 prior to the service.