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IN LOVING MEMORY OF
H. Ray
Bryson
August 13, 1934 – January 12, 2021
Obituary
H. Ray Bryson was born in Walhalla, South Carolina on August 13, 1934 and lived a life full of adventure until his peaceful passing on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.
He and his wife Shirley became Hampton residents in 1985. Ray and Shirley were happily married for 59 years until she predeceased him in 2013. Together, they spent more than 20 years traveling the world with the United States Air Force.
Ray grew up in the mountains of rural South Carolina making mischievous fun with his brother and sisters. He met and married Shirley while stationed in Portland, Oregon in 1954. They had four daughters before Ray was assigned to Taipei, Taiwan to direct the entertainment for the troops during the Vietnam conflict. He managed military clubs, hosted entertainers, and escorted dignitaries during his time in Southeast Asia. He loved both the people he met and the exciting travel his job afforded him.
Upon his retirement, he spent 7 months a year in a RV traveling across the United States. He had friends all over the country. If there was a place he couldn't find an old friend...he made a new one. "On the road again" was his favorite song.
Ray was a big personality who was loved by all. He will be missed immensely.
He is survived by two sisters, Iona Nichols, 97 and Velma Lee, 90. Velma was his best friend and partner in crime for his entire life. They had more fun together than most people can imagine. His four daughters, Cheryl Lockwood (James), Gail Kilker (Daniel), Linda Bryson, and Janice Bryson who considered him a mentor and a friend. His grandchildren, Jason Pell, Amy Chanthaboury, Adam Bowers, Timothy Gurley, Jessica and Katherine Lockwood who he taught to fish, shoot, cook, play poker and squeeze the fun out of every day. And his seven great-grandchildren who will all miss their "Papa".
Ray was laid to rest at the Albert G. Horton Jr. Veterans Cemetery with full military honors. May he enjoy his next adventure, with his favorite co-pilot back by his side.
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