William "Ray" Rogers' Obituary
William "Ray" Rogers, at the age of 88, died Wednesday, April 9, 2014 in Tavares, Florida, of a pre-existing medical condition. He has been a residence of Tavares for over 40 years.
Ray was born January 13, 1926 at St. Petersburg, Florida to William Cleveland "WC" and Ruby "Pearl" Rogers. He was the oldest of four children. He is survived by a sister, Ginger Arnold of Pennsylvania; three children, Debra Hayes of South Carolina, Pamela MacSorley of Georgia; Raymond "Scott" Rogers of Arkansas; a companion, Charlotte Sue Evans of Tavares, Florida; and Sue's daughter, Anna Kornhaus of Clermont. Florida. He was the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.
Ray was in the U.S. Army during World War II and attended Tri-State College in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. He began a career as a chemical engineer at Davidson Chemicals of Florida and many other companies throughout his life time. He retired and opened up Mr. Ray's Mini Mart of Tavares and became known for Mr. Ray's Barbeque Sauce. Afterwards, he was a familiar face at United Southern Bank as a security officer. Ray was a life time member of the Masons, National Rifle Association and the Lions Club. He was a supporter of organizations such as Stop Turning Out Prisoners and Wooten Park. He enjoyed photography, family, fishing and cooking. To sum up Ray's life is to say that he enjoyed life to the fullest including sky-diving at the age of 70.
A memorial ceremony will be held on Monday, April 14, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements are entrusted to Steverson, Hamlin and Hilbish Funerals and Cremations, Tavares, FL, (352) 343-4444. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared on the tribute wall.
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