Forever in our hearts. Dr. W. J. “ Max” Ray, Jr., 88, of Odessa passed away Monday, May 2, 2022. Born in Tampa, Fl in 1933 Max grew up in Seminole Heights and attended Hillsborough High School class of 1951 Max studied at the University of Florida and graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Veterinary Medicine. Returning home, he established Beach Park Animal Clinic in South Tampa and worked there until he retired in 2018. Max’s career spanned 60 years and he became well known for not only his small animal practice but his expertise and love of horses. Max was a man of keen intellect and interests too many to list including Florida fresh and saltwater fishing, spearfishing and hunting all over North America. In later years Max published three books and was working on a fourth.
Max was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Martha Ray of Tampa as well as his sisters Vickie, Leota and Shirley and brother Woodrow.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Marie, children Daniel Ray of Odessa, David Ray of St. Petersburg and Dalene Ray Lane (Tres) of Deland, Fl; Grandchildren Deanna and Will Ray, Lyndsey, Tristan and Ashley Lane and great granddaughter Josephine Rose. He is also survived by his brother Edmond; step daughters Monique Bosker and Nicole Varela and children. Words can’t accurately describe our loving Husband, Dad and Grandfather. He was a man of integrity, humor and truth. There will never be another like him.
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