Everett “Ed” Ray

MESA – Everett “Ed” Ray, a loving husband, father, Papa, and friend went to be with his Heavenly Father on May 20, 2018. He was born July 18, 1933 in Ethel, Mississippi the youngest child of Myrtle Skeen and Earl Fonzo Ray. He grew up hunting, fishing, and playing football. After graduating from Ethel High School, he entered the Air Force and was stationed at Williams Air Force Base in Chandler Arizona. He met the love of his life, Margaret Martin, working the soda counter at Arrow Pharmacy. Ed and Margaret were married January 2, 1952 in Chandler and moved to Phoenix to raise three children Thomas, Suzan and Lisa. He began his 41 year law enforcement career as a prison guard at Arizona State Prison in Florence and then served 27 years as an officer with the Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol. He retired from DPS and remained active with the Highway Patrol Association and was considered “on duty” by all his grandkids.

Ed was a man of faith, loved the great outdoors, insisted on promptness in all aspects, especially mealtimes, and is survived by his loving wife Margaret, daughter Lisa, five grandchildren Heather, Margee, Emily, Michael Adam, and Michael Austin, four great grandchildren Matthew, Cruz, Lane, Sage, niece Anita Durham and many loving cousins.

Ed’s funeral service will be held on Monday, May 28 2018, at 11am at Hi-Way Baptist Church 10505 E Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207.