Emil Wayne Ray, 72 of Van Buren passed away Friday, December 15, 2017 in his home.
He retired as Executor Director of the Fort Smith Housing Authority; he was a graduate of Van Buren High School Class of 1963 and a graduate of SAU in Magnolia having obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in secondary education. He enjoyed listening to music and being with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by both parents, Dewey, Sr and Mae (Schreckengoss) Ray.

Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Ocker Memorial Chapel in Van Buren with burial at Gracelawn Cemetery in Van Buren under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home Van Buren, Arkansas.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Schumann) Ray of the home; one daughter, Leslie Ray Britt and wife, Lindsay of Fayetteville; two sons, Jonathan Ray and wife, Kara, Daniel Ray and wife, Brittany all of Van Buren; one sister, Polly Bryant and husband, Bobby of Van Buren; two brothers, Richard Ray and wife, Martha, Jerry Ray and wife, Nancy all of Van Buren; twelve grandchildren; one great -grandchild and several nieces and nephews.

The family will visit with relatives and friends Tuesday, December 19, 2017 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Ocker Funeral Home 700 Jefferson Street Van Buren.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Brasuell, Derek Brasuell, Whitney Ray, Randy McClaren, Russell Ray and Stonie Hopkins.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Alvy Hays and Jerry Don Brasuell.

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