Raymond Arthur Ways
2019-1932
Raymond Arthur Ways was born on March 2, 1932 in New York City and had a full and impactful life.
On September 10, 2019 at the age of 87, Ray passed quietly and peacefully in his home with his loving wife Janice by his side and surrounded by close family members; he will be dearly missed by all.
Ray was a 1955 graduate from The United States Naval Academy and proudly served his country until July 1985. Ray was dedicated to his country and comrades-in-arms, he was an elite BLACK ACES VF-41 fighter pilot decorated with several highly distinguished awards: The Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (5), Navy Commendation Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Command at Sea Insignia, Naval Aviator Insignia, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, Humanitarian Service Medal, Legion of Merit (5).
In addition to his 30 years of service to his country, Ray had a wide range of accomplishments, hobbies and interests. To mention a few, Ray was a black belt in Shotokan Karate, an avid diver, he ran too many 10K’s to count, boating, gardening, target shooting, reading and was a sports enthusiast. He loved the Dallas Cowboys.
Ray always enjoyed the outdoors and it was his dream to have a home on a couple of acres of land surrounded by trees, flowers and wildlife, the peaceful and quaint town of Berkeley Springs fit the bill. Ray was quite fond of his new found home and town as well as sharing fellowship at his church, First United Methodist Church.
Ray was preceded in death by his mother Jeanette Wisneska Ways, his father Stanley George Ways and his much loved son Kirk A.Ways.
Ray is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years Janice Rychtar Ways. Ray was a loving father and is survived by his daughter, Martha Ways Waltersdorf (spouse Harvey R) and stepdaughter Barbi C. Brown; beloved father to sons Erik B. Ways, Steven A.Ways, stepsons William T. Brown III, Michael E. Brown, beloved sister Diana J. Cummings and his brother George A. Ways (spouse Nancy L.).
He leaves behind and will be missed by many beloved grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church, 49 South Green Street, Berkeley Springs, WV on Wednesday, September 18, 2019. Viewing – 10:00 a.m. and services will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Doug Hoffman officiating.
Burial at a later date will be in Arlington National Cemetery.
Arrangements by Hunter-Anderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 36 S. Green Street, Berkeley Springs.
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