When Ray was just 18 years old he joined the Franciscan Brotherhood. However, just a short year later his father passed away and he moved back home to take care of his mom and sisters.
Ray joined the US Navy in 1952 and spent the next four years serving his country. After his military service Ray found his way to San Diego in 1958 and has been here since.
After moving to San Diego in 1958 Ray started his Funeral Servicer Career at Johnson-Saum and Knobel Mortuary on Ash Street in San Diego. He worked there for two years before moving to Los Angeles to attend and complete Mortuary College. After completing his studies he moved back to San Diego and once again started working for Johnson-Saum and Knobel Mortuary. In 1969 he took a job with Humphrey Mortuary in Chula Vista, Ray would continue his career there until his retirement. With over 50 years serving the families of the San Diego area, Ray was a well-respected and loved funeral Director. He dedicated his life to serving people and he loved his career.
Ray met his companion of 58 years when he moved to San Diego. They spent much of their time traveling the world and enjoying the close friends and family they had here in San Diego.
Ray Is proceeded in death by his parents and three sisters, one sister died as an infant and he lost his first Sister Ronnie in 1956. His Sister Vivian died in March of 2011. Both of his sister had dedicated their lives to the Religious order known as the Carmelite Sisters.
Ray is survived by Vern Miller, his companion of 58 years, Ray always considered Vern’s family as his own so he is also survived by many nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters.
A Memorial Service will be held on December 7th, 2019 at 11:00 am at Merkley-Mitchell Mortuary followed by a reception there at the mortuary. A time to share, laugh, cry and enjoy the memories we all have of Raymond Joseph Wooding.
Merkley-Mitchell Mortuary is honored to be serving the family of Raymond J. Wooding.
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