Obituary of Raymond Avery, Sr.

Raymond Joseph Avery, Sr., 76, born August 29, 1938 to Jesse B. and Eileen Gallagher Avery in San Diego, California, passed away December 27, 2014 in Jacksonville, Florida. Ray served in the Air National Guard after graduating from Bishop Kenny High (Class of 56). He lived in Jacksonville for many years touching so many lives while coaching Pop Warner Football and Baseball for the Arlington Lions Club. He really enjoyed spending the quality time with his sons while trying to make a difference in all the young people's lives that he had the pleasure of coaching. Ray was dedicated family man and worked hard to make sure they were well taken care of and tried hard to keep everyone laughing along the way with his quick wit. He gave 35 years of his life to Anheuser Busch Inc. before retiring in August of 2008, making the most of the years to come. When he moved to Lawtey, FL he pursued the dream of owning horses and that is where he found another love, Civil War Reenacting. Ray traveled to many cities participating in battles and educating the public on the history of the Civil War, he was very passionate about this. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gale E. Avery in 2006; as well as both his parents.

He is survived by his brother John Thomas (Jack) Avery (Maggie), his three children: Raymond J. (Chip) Avery Jr. (Renee), Gregory E. Avery (Rhonda) and Dawn L. Avery. Ray will also be missed by his beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as a host of nieces and nephews. The family will begin receiving friends from 6pm- 8pm on Friday January 2, 2015 at Arlington Park Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held 11am on Saturday January 3, 2015 at Arlington Park Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Rigdon officiating. A burial will immediately follow at Arlington Park Cemetery, 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, Florida. 32211 The family would like for everyone to join them immediately following the service for the continued celebration of Ray's life at the Francis Padgett Arlington Senior Center located at 1078 Rogero Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211

Arrangements by Arlington Park Funeral Home, 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32211 (904) 724-6384.