A Tribute to Our Dear Friend Ray Stevens
A Bud Light Toast to Ray
Around the world there are many who count themselves fortunate to have known Ray Stevens and when news of his passing reached them feelings were a mix of sadness for the loss of a dear friend and relief that Ray was no longer suffering from the pain brought on by cancer. Hearts went out to wife Sheila and Ray’s two children Chris and Brandi and their families. But somehow it didn’t seem enough. The passing of such a special person as Ray Stevens, a man who reached out every day to his friends sharing news and reminiscences of the good ‘ole days, must have had many of his friends thinking the same thing…. it just didn’t seem right to let Ray pass quietly into the night. There must be some way to pay homage to this great man.
So it is with much appreciation that we recognize the brilliant proposition brought forth by Janell Reyenga. She connected with Tom Doody who has been kind enough to keep friends in his circle informed of Ray and suggested a Bud Light Toast for Ray at 5:00 pm Central Time. (Bud Light was Ray’s drink of choice.) Through email, the idea caught on and glasses were lifted in a toast to Ray at 5 p.m. Central Time on the day of his passing, February 20, 2013.
The following video is a collage of the photos submitted to commemorate the day Ray moved on to a better place.
Visit Obituary for Raymond Lee Stevens (rls).
We have lost a good and special friend!
We’re all blessed to have known Ray! What a bright star. I’m sure he’s up in heaven taking photos and cataloging them already!
love to you Sheila!
Janell
Ray will be SO missed! Such a love of life he had, for family, for friends, for his Queen Sheila. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
What a lovely tribute. He must have been a wonderful man – and an even better friend.
We are so sorry to hear of your great loss. He will be missed. We have enjoyed reminiscing of days gone by in Saudi through Ray’s eyes. We extend our deepest condolences and May God Bless you and keep you strong. Because I know Ray will be keeping his eyes on you from above. Luv
Ray was the kind of guy who could have fun even if he was left naked in a plowed field with only a bowling ball for company. We hope the many memories of his lively personality transcend his passing and comfort his family.
A Bud Light Toast!