Raymond Edward Bays
Raymond Edward Bays, 76, of Nitro, WV, passed away on February 2, 2024, at HospiceCare at CAMC Memorial Hospital.
Raymond was born on August 1, 1947, to the late Abraham Bays and Dorothy Toler Bays in Charleston, WV. After graduation from high school, Raymond served his country with distinction in the United States Navy, serving in both Vietnam and the first Gulf War. After a career of service to his country and earning advanced degrees, Raymond worked for many years in the chemical industry in South Charleston.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Abraham and Dorothy Bays; sister, Betsy Meadows, and brothers: Dennis Bays, Norman Bays, and Joe Bays. He is survived by his two sons, Derrek Bays and William Bays; his domestic partner for over 23 years, Vickie Ross; sisters: Kay Means, Sue Wiblin, Diana Pauley, and Pam Lowers; and brother, James Barger.
A Memorial Gathering to remember Raymond will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Snodgrass Funeral Home in South Charleston.
Memories of Raymond may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Share This Obituary
No Service
uncode-placeholder
Ray was my first friend when I moved to WV. He took that guy from “Beaver pits” and taught him everything about the polyol business. Over the next 23 years we became much more than work colleagues as we hunted bear,elk,deer from Idaho to Colorado to Illinois and fished from Canada to Ohio and Kentucky, and of course WV. I heard a lot of stories and became some of them. That’s what friends are. Great Memories. You always knew where you stood with Ray and where he stood. A true patriot. I’ve already missed making those memories since moving to NC. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Master Chief🇺🇸 🏹🎣
Ray and I were best buddies during our high school years in the mid 60’s and into the early 70’s. I had my first beer at his house after talking his older brother Dennis into buying us 6 pack of Stroh’s. Chug-a-lug, my ears still ring!! Lol. Ray had a very unique witty personality. He was very intelligent and fun to be around. He was the life of the party and always joking around. I enjoyed all the good times we shared together. One incident I remember is when we were coming down Oakridge Drive in Charleston on my Honda 50 scooter after gulping down a couple Stroh’s and I failed to negotiate a left hand curve and ended up over the hill in this side yard. Next thing I remember was Ray saying “Get off of me, Oz”. I was driving and he was on the back. I have no idea how I ended up on top. I don’t believe I ever thanked him for breaking my fall. Lol. I was glad that Ray found his niche in the Navy, then went on to have a successful career. Smooth sailing ol’ buddy and hope to see you in the resurrection.