Maurice Edward Ray

Lt Col (Ret) Maurice Edward Ray

Niceville, Fla

April 16, 1932   - November 29, 2017

Mauri Ray,85; a much loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, teacher and Air Force pilot passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2017. It is with a heavy heart that we all mourn his passing.

He is preceded in death by his devoted wife of 62 years, Nancy Ray. Mauri leaves behind his two children, Patti Blaylock (Dewey) and Tom Ray (Lorena); grandchildren, Justin Blaylock (Allison) Christy Kowalski (Craig), Katie Ray (TJay) and Carrie O’Connor (Sean) and four great-grandchildren Chase, Blake, Bryce and Amelia. He also has a surviving sister, Barbara Whipker of Hope, Indiana.

Although, Mauri’s passing is a tragic loss for those left behind, we can celebrate his 85 years with us and all of his accomplishments. He graduated from Ball State University and left Indiana to embark on his military career that took them to Oklahoma, Louisiana, Japan, Nebraska, North Carolina and then finally Florida. After twenty years of distinguished service as a pilot in the Air Force he went on to become a 5th grade school teacher for another 20 years. In the military he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, but he was probably more excited when his students won an academic competition. He later enjoyed being the President of the Northwest Florida Symphony Guild at then Okaloosa Walton Junior College.  Helping to grow the Guild was one of his favorite accomplishments.

In addition to being a great teacher, he and Nancy were consummate entertainers and travelers. The house was always full of their friends and family they cared so much about. They loved their home of 40 years in Niceville and all who became part of their lives. Thanks Dad, for everything you did for us … you will forever be in our hearts as we continue our life’s journey.

The Visitation and Funeral will be held at Heritage Gardens in Niceville on Sunday, December 3, 2017 at 1:00 pm.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Regency Hospice or your favorite charity.

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