Ray is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Sherry Hooks Wallis of Pottsboro, Texas, his son, Toby Wallis of Pottsboro, Texas, and his sister, Susan Wallis Green of Houston, Texas. He was also a devoted grandfather to three cherished grandchildren: Kristina Kenney and her husband Colton of South Carolina, Tyler Wallis and his fiancée Kayla of Missouri, and Sammy Wallis of Pottsboro. Ray had a special place in his heart for his mother-in-law, Virginia Hooks, and his sister-in-law, Kathy Wallis of Arizona. He is also remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Rogers C. Wallis Jr., his sister, Sandra Wallis Massa, and his two sons, Jason Wallis and Cary Wallis. He also joined his father-in-law, Sam Hooks, in the afterlife.
Ray’s life was marked by a deep commitment to serving his country. He retired from the US Army in 1970, after which he continued his service in the National Guard and Army Reserves. He was a proud veteran who would eagerly share stories of his service with anyone who showed interest. After his military career, Ray spent 20 years as a truck driver, sometimes bringing his wife along on the road. His retirement saw him embrace the role of a doting grandpa who never missed a sporting event or special occasion in his grandchildren’s lives. He found joy in fishing, working in his shop, and tending to his beloved flower and vegetable gardens.
Ray was known for his generosity and his ability to connect with people effortlessly. He had a knack for making friends wherever he went and never met a stranger. He was loved by many, and his absence will be deeply felt.
A memorial service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held at 1 PM on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at the Johnson-Moore Pottsboro Chapel, located at 511 W Hwy 120, Pottsboro, Texas 75076. Following the memorial service, a committal service at Georgetown Cemetery in Pottsboro, where Ray will receive Military Honors in recognition of his dedicated service to his country.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ray’s honor to a veterans’ charity or an organization of your choice. Ray Wallis leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and laughter, and he will be remembered and missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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