Ray Anderson

Ray is predeceased by his wife Wilma and son, Ray Jr., and is survived by their daughters, Janice and Carol; grandchildren Darin, Kim, Aaron, Benjay, and Melissa; great-grandchildren Nathan, Deanna, Ariana, Tyler, Raylei, Avery, Hayden, Hailey, and Hannah and great-great-granddaughter Emilia.

Ray was born November 26, 1924, to Tennie and James Anderson in Lockney, Texas. During his childhood, Ray relocated with his family to Tolleson, Arizona where he met and married the love of his life, Wilma. They went on to have 3 children: Janice, Ray Jr., and Carol. He was a devoted family man and friend to all. He was a man of his word and was always there for anyone who needed him, especially his family. He was an amazing and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He enjoyed woodwork, gardening, collecting seashells and other artifacts. Ray volunteered in various organizations throughout his life. As a retiree, he volunteered with the Kiwanis Club and Peoria Historical Society. He also assisted in the establishment of the Tonto Basin Community Library and collection of books. Additionally, Ray was a Mason and an active church member and always enjoyed telling stories about his life, and his work as Zanjero and Water Master with SRP.

He exemplified himself leading by example and was a hard worker who shared his life lessons with his loved ones. As a family, we thank him for doing the best, back then and now, for knowing his stuff, the where, when and how, for sharing and caring as only he could, for being a wonderful kindhearted man, for giving his love and all that he had. WE cannot say it enough…Thank you, Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa and Great-Great grandpa. You lived a full and warm life filled with love and joy and will never be forgotten! We love you and will “Hang on Sloopy,” until we see you again.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Dementia Society of America.