Ray H. Small, of Hampton VA, peacefully left this world at 75 years old on May 30th 2016 in his home. He had suffered from chronic illnesses for many years, but it never dampened his quirkiness, outlandish sense of humor, and charm. He was truly a blessing to his family.

Ray was an avid story teller and whether or not the tale was true didn't matter. What mattered was how excited he would become when telling it. Ray loved to tell stories of royalty and notable people of history. He loved World War II history as well, and watched many documentaries on American warfare. He even would watch the occasional blockbuster film- Pearl Harbor was one of his favorites, along with The Beatles inspired Across the Universe .

During his later years in life, Ray was mostly bound to his home where he was wonderfully taken care of by his loving daughter Roxanne Febuary and her boyfriend, Chris James. Ray also greatly loved his granddaughter, Chelsea Countiss, who spent much of her life growing up in his home. He is survived by his brother, Ricky Small.

Even though Ray spent most of his time at home, it never stopped him from enjoying the simple of pleasures of life like watching his favorite TV show. Every day he watched "The Price Is Right" followed by NCIS, The Big Bang Theory, or Modern Family. He would get a kick out of TV specials, recently the one with Lady Gaga singing to the WWII veterans. He had a love of simple southern food like a mayo and tomato sandwich, pickled vegetables, cucumbers, and red wine vinaigrette. Even until his last days Ray would fry himself up a hamburger or ask for some steamed Chesapeake Bay blue crabs-a nod to his hometown of Gywnn's Island, VA.

Ray was a loyal shipyard worker at Huntington Ingalls for 35 years. He attended the apprentice school for shipwright and became a production controller after graduating. Ray was highly intelligent and helped teach classes while attending the apprentice school. Ray was a religious man and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior, whom he followed into Heaven on Monday.

While Ray may no longer be here with us physically, his generosity and kind spirit will always live on in the hearts of his family and loved ones.

The family wishes expressions of sympathy to take the form of contributions to the St. Joseph Indian School, PO Box 200, Chamberlain, SD 57325 or your local chapter of the Disabled American Veterans.