Aaron B. Ray

Aaron Brinson Ray, 43, passed away Saturday, Sept 6, 2014, in St. Augustine, FL. Aaron was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL and attended Englewood HS. After graduating, he joined the US Navy, and served aboard the carrier USS Eisenhower (CVN69), including service in the Persian Gulf during the second Gulf war. Aaron received numerous medals and awards, and was very proud of his Naval service. He was active in the American Legion Post 37 in St. Augustine, as well as the VFW. Aaron operated his own hydraulic repair business for many years, learning his trade in the Navy. Aaron was a lifelong Seminoles fan, naming his beloved Golden Retriever "Bowden". Aaron's children were the light of his life, and he adored them. Aaron was predeceased by his Father, James Ray Jr. He is survived by his wife, Amanda, and loving children Aaron(Rookie), D'Lainey, and Rylan. He is also survived by his mother, Julia Prickett (James); Dad, Don Redmond (Ronnie); brother, Kyle Redmond; and half-sister's Jamie Chandler and Kristi Kerns, and half-brother Justin Ray; nieces, nephews and other family and many, many friends. A viewing will be held from 6-8pm Thursday, Sept 11, at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223. Burial will be in the near future at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Aaron's name to the Wounded Warrior's Project.