Raymond F. Williams

Raymond "Ray" Francis Williams - husband, cousin, friend, mentor, confidante, teacher, collaborator, entrepreneur, dream weaver and master musician - passed away October 1, 2011, in Las Vegas, Nevada at the age of 56. Ray was born October 30, 1954, in Paterson, New Jersey, to Virginia Crosby Williams and Raymond Francis DiGuglielmo. Ray was an exceptional entrepreneur and for many years he enjoyed a successful reputation as a mortgage and real estate broker. Music was Ray's passion and he earned a master of arts in music at Hunter College in New York. He was a highly acclaimed classical guitarist who produced several CDs and performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and in London at The Queen Elizabeth Hall. Most recently, Ray enjoyed his "second" career as an elementary school music teacher at Steve Cozine Elementary School. He often said how much his life was enriched by the children he taught and the joy he received in teaching others something he loved so much. Ray and his wife, Sheree, built a beautiful life together sharing their love of family, friends, camping, their "babies", Reggie and Flour, and each other. Ray is survived by his adoring wife, Sheree; Las Vegas cousins, Bill and Melanie Crosby and their sons, Billy and Clay; many extended family members throughout the U.S. and countless friends who were touched by Ray's generosity throughout the years. Ray's love of life, big-heart and zest for knowledge made him a wonderful storyteller and a well-loved friend to many. He will be missed immensely. Visitation will be at 12:30pm on Saturday, October 8, with Memorial Service to follow at 1:00pm, both at Palm Mortuary, 7400 W. Cheyenne Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada. In Ray's honor, donations can be made to the Ray Williams Cozine Music Fund, c/o Steve Cozine Elementary School, North Las Vegas, Nevada 89031, (702) 799-0690.