Francis "Ray" Wilson

Francis “Ray” Wilson, 71, of Staunton, passed away Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Augusta Health Shenandoah House.

He was born in Hot Springs on September 2, 1952, the son of the late George Osborne and Bonnie Grace (Gum) Wilson.

A Christian, Ray was raised and attended Monterey United Methodist Church throughout his youth. A veteran, he served with the U.S. Army. Ray enjoyed time spent grilling as well as fishing, hunting, and digging ginseng with his father and brothers. Above all, he loved his daughters and family.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Thomas “Tom” Wilson and his beloved canine companions, Moca and Janie.

Ray is survived by his wife of 29 years, Sherrie (Brackenridge) Wilson of Staunton; children, Holly Wilson and partner, Travis Booth of Staunton and Haley Grace Wilson of Staunton; a brother, George Osborne Wilson Jr. of Bridgewater; sister, Mary Tacy and husband, Gail of Staunton; grandsons, Tyler Ray Booth and Jaxon Allan Booth; as well as a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held 1 p.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at Monterey United Methodist Church with pastor Bobbie Jo Gardner officiating. Interment will follow in Monterey Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Travis Booth, Chris Eye, Jason Hand, Doug Shifflett, Mike Berry and Paul Byers.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Monterey Cemetery, c/o Nancy Sweitzer, 228 Triple Oak Lane, Hot Springs, Va. 24445.