Ray Wadsworth, 95, passed away Monday, July 31, 2023. Ray was a lifelong resident of Arley, AL.
He was born on May 23, 1928. Ray was devoted to and loved his family above all. He was a private in the 323rd Division of the US Army. He was proud of his service to his country and loved to hand out a copy of his military photo to all who would receive it. Ray loved to travel and did so until he was physically unable. However, he was famously unimpressed with Stonehenge and commented that it was “just a bunch of rocks”.
His most special trip was being able to visit Korea as a tourist, instead as a member of the military. He always stated that it was the most beautiful country he ever visited. He took his children and grandchildren on many trips and fostered a love of travel in each of them. He will be greatly missed by the Arley community.
The funeral will be held at Nichols Funeral home in Addison, AL on Thursday, August 3, 2023. Visitation for friends will be at 10 a.m., with the service beginning at 11 a.m.
Ray was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, Ruth Chappell Wadsworth in 1988; wife of 18 years, Nancy Dorsett Wadsworth in 2017; son, William “Billy” Wadsworth; parents, JE and Dessa Wadsworth; his brothers, Sherman and Dorthen Wadsworth; sisters, Inez Wadsworth, Maitland Newsome, Dothene Aaron, Louise McCormic and Carolyn Harbison.
He is survived by his daughter, Patsy (Bobby) Williams; his son, Timothy Ray Wadsworth; grandchildren, Emily (Lee) Akins, Alisha (Doug) Barnett, and Jarrod (Kerri) Wadsworth; and great grandchildren, Karlee, Brantlee, Owen, Audrey and Eli.
Officiating the service will be Tim Box and Ron Wooten. Pallbearers will be Tim Wadsworth, Jarrod Wadsworth, Eli Wadsworth, Bob Williams, Lee Akins, Brantlee Akins, Doug Barnett, Owen Barnett, Jamey Vernon, and Phillip Harbison.
The family has requested that you honor Ray’s memory with a gift of your time. We ask that you visit a nursing home or visit an elderly family member or friend.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.nicholsfuneralhomes.com.
