KING - Rayford Lee King age 70 died Sunday, September 24, 2017. He was preceded in death by his father Samuel King Sr., mother Joyce Carroll and stepfather Eugene Carroll; siblings, Randall King, Dixie Hubbard, Tonya Cowgill and Michael Carroll. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Carol King of Rockford, MI; children, Kimberly Ann Numbers, Samuel Robert King, Natalie Jeanine King, Michelle (Kim) Covington; several grandchildren; several great grandchildren; siblings, Samuel King Jr., Patricia (Kenneth) Kelly, Samia (Wayne) Shriner, Darnell (Paula) King, Jennifer (Byron) George, Priscilla (Marc) Schultz, Cynthia King, Patrick Carroll and Tammy Harms. In 1965 Ray joined the Navy reporting to basic training at Great Lakes, IL. As an interior communications specialist he served aboard the USS Essex (CBA9), the USS Thuben (AKA19) and the USS Middlesex (LST983). Following his service aboard these and other vessels, Ray entered the Navy Reserve serving in Indiana, South Dakota and Michigan. He recalled to active duty as a career counselor recruiter in Jacksonville, FL and Great Lakes, IL and retired in 2000 as a Chief Petty Officer. A highly decorated Navy Chief, Ray was the recipient of the Commendation Medal, the Achievement Medal (3) and numerous others including the Gold Wreath Award for Excellence in Recruiting. Chief King received his MS in Education and was a devoted husband, father, sailor, teacher and trainer. He was a proud member of the Fleet Reserve Association, an avid reader, a committed volunteer for veterans and enjoyed the sites of America from his Harley. A memorial service will be held Sunday, October 15 to begin promptly at 2:00 pm, Fountain Street Church, Grand Rapids, MI. Reception to immediately follow. Parking is available on the streets surrounding the church, and in the Grand Rapids Community College ramp just northeast of our building - see the church website for further information. In lieu of flowers the family invites memorial contributions to the Fisher House or Saint Mary’s Hospital Foundation. Arrangements being made by and guestbook available on the Stegenga Funeral Chapel website. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Rayford L. King please visit our Sympathy Store.
OCT 15. 2:00 PM (EDT)
Fountain Street Church
24 Fountain St. NE
Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
http://www.fountainstreet.org/home
Ray always made you feel like you were an instant good friend, right from the first time you met him. Few people can do that, and then you never forgot him after that. Bob Stewart,SK1 NMCRC Grand Rapids
- Robert Stewart
One fantastic friend and Shipmate
- Dick Priest
Ray and Carol were our next door neighbors when we lived in Wadsworth, Illinois. Ray and I became good friends because of our mutual love of riding our Harleys. I will never forget when Carol purchased Ray a new Harley for Christmas and it was my job to distract him for a few hours while the bike was delivered to the house. Oh how he wanted to go back home! Ray and I rode a lot of miles together including Sturgis and the Blue Ridge Parkway. He was an awesome travel companion and a dedicated, loyal friend. I will miss his sense of adventure and his sense of humor. Jim Fenderson and the Fenderson family.
- Jim Fenderson
What a great friend and neighbor he was. Will miss ya coming down for Jame Dean Days. RIP fellow veteran
- Jerry haisley
Ray, you've stood your watch. You stood it well. We will assume the watch and hope that we can live up to your standard. May fair winds and following seas be with you, shipmate. May you rest in peace for eternity.
- Lee Keller, PN1, USN (ret)
Momma, I'm so sorry you've lost the love of your life. He brought joy to everyone and I was lucky to know him. My heart breaks for you, Cassidy and all the grandkids who didn't get enough of him.
- Michelle Covington
Priscilla and Patty, we were so sorry to read about your brother. Want you to know we are thinking of all of you with love and prayers. Don & Sara Spahr
- don & sara spahr
He was a cool dude, no doubt. Worked hard his whole life. A great Navy Vet. To the King family and his wifes family my heart and prayers goes out to you. Love you Ray King. your pal Dink Dalton & family.
- James A. Dalton
Thanks for all the Laughs, My Brother. Ray was a very caring and giving soul, Proud too have served with u Ray. Fair winds and following Seas, Shipmate.
- George F. Ogg
So sorry, Natalie, about the loss of your dad. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
- Carol Natte
Some people bring a smile to your heart, no matter the distance or last time you spoke. Ray was one of those special people. He was a shipmate and friend who loved life, made me laugh, and always made the day better. My prayers are with his family, friends and shipmates
- Sherry Ferriman
James A. Stover lit a candle in memory of Rayford L. King
- James A. Stover
We were very sorry to hear of Ray's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of great loss. James and Kathryn Stover Belmont, MI
- James A. Stover
A lot of the men in this picture were recruited by The Chief, Ray King. Fair winds and following seas, we have the watch.
- Chief Priest
My deepest sympathy to all of Rays family n friends. Ray never ceased to bring laughter when I needed it. He was a true friend, shipmate and fellow Chief who I will miss greatly. RIP shipmate we have the watch.
- "BO" Ethel Luebbe
We were such good friends throughout high school and in later years. Many adventures to never forget. I will sure miss you my Buddy but I will see you on the other side.
- Van Brown
I'm so sorry for the loss of your Dad, I'm keeping you and your family in my prayers.
- Eunice Butt
Thank you, Eunice.
- Natalie King
Natalie King lit a candle in memory of Rayford L. King
- Natalie King
Dad… I miss you so much. I keeping expecting you to call me up and say, "Hey Boo!" I'll keep our Bad Joke Wednesday tradition alive. I love you.
- Natalie King
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