Life Legacy
William Ray Johnson, 66, of Dover, died Saturday, January 30, 2010, at his home.
Ray was born March 31, 1943 in Georgetown, the son of the late Clarence and Clara Johnson.
Upon graduation from Georgetown High School, Ray attended Goldey Beacom College and graduated with a degree in Accounting. After graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves from 1963- 1971, while working as an accountant.
Ray began work for the State of Delaware as a senior accountant for the Budget Commission in 1968. He developed the initial accounting system that resulted in helping fund the State’s many public parklands. In 1971, he joined in the creation of the Office of Pensions as the fiscal administrative officer. He helped to computerize the office in the 80’s and spearheaded many initiatives that continue to support Delaware’s retirees. “Ray J,” as his office nicknamed him, retired from the office on September 1, 2008, serving the state proudly for 39 years and 10 months. He continued to support the office as a part-time consultant in new efforts to advance the office until the day he died.
Ray was the chairman of the 32nd Representative District Democrat Committee, served on the County and State Committees of the Democratic Party and tirelessly worked to help elect many of Delaware’s elected officials statewide.
In his spare time he continued to support the community. He was a member of the Capital Grange and Delaware lighthouse Society, working on the repair and maintenance of the Breakwater Light. He coached Little League, YMCA Soccer, basketball, and Kent County softball teams as his children grew up in Dover. His favorite times were with his wife, Claudia and their family.
Ray loved traveling, especially to Sanibel Island, FL where he relaxed by shelling, riding his bike, and walking on the beach.
He was a life long athlete. Ray loved football, baseball, basketball, racing, and fishing. A former race car driver, he enjoyed watching NASCAR, but nothing topped his devotion to Notre Dame Football and the Philadelphia Phillies.
Ray was truly dedicated to his family and friends always giving to others and expecting nothing in return.
Ray is survived by his life partner and wife of 41 years, Claudia; his two children, Donna Johnson and her boyfriend, Chip Riddleberger, Randy Johnson and his wife Aubrey; two grandsons that were the shining stars in his eyes, Kyle and Chase Johnson; brothers Richard Johnson and his wife Barbara, Ronald Johnson; sisters Barbara Eaton and her husband Ralph, Karen Warren; nieces and nephews Sandy, Rich, Larney, Shannon, Craig, and Kelly and many other family members and friends.
Friends may call Thursday, February 4, from 5 to 8 pm and again Friday 12 to 1 pm at Torbert Funeral Chapel South, 1145 E. Lebanon Rd (Rt. 10), Dover. Funeral Services will be Friday, 1pm at the funeral home.
|
|
|
Born: March 31, 1943
Place of Birth: Georgetown, DE USA
Death: January 30, 2010
Place of Death: Dover, DE
|
Memorial donations may be made to:
|
This memorial provided by:
Torbert Funeral Chapels
|
