Ray Charles Washington, Sr.

After a hard-fought battle with an aggressive cancer, Ray Charles “Blu” Washington Sr. of Douglasville, GA passed away on May 21, 2023, while in Hospice Care at the age of 66. His loving family surrounded him until his last breath. Ray’s unwavering optimism and dedication to his loved ones will forever be remembered.

Ray was born on April 26, 1957, in Atlanta, GA to Charlie Thomas Washington Jr. and Essie Lee Chatman, who both predeceased him. He grew up in Douglasville where he spent his entire life. Ray was the third youngest of eleven siblings, Eloise Springer, Mary (Lewis) Birdsong, Savannah Jean (Willie) Price, Paulette (Michael) Hammonds, James Brown, Mickey (Margaret) Brown, Danny Washington, Myrtice (Ralph-decease) Short, Connie Washington, and Randy Washington. Ray cherished the bonds of family throughout his life.

Ray dedicated his professional career to WSA, Allswells, and then to L&M where he worked diligently and took pride in his contributions. He was a hardworking and dependable employee, always striving to make a positive impact within his community.

Ray found joy in various hobbies and interests. He had a deep passion for fishing and spent many peaceful hours casting lines and enjoying the serenity of nature. As a resolute sports enthusiast, he was an avid supporter of the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Braves, and Georgia Tech. Ray’s enthusiasm for his favorite teams brought him closer to or momentarily further from his friends and family, and he shared many memorable moments cheering for his beloved teams.

In 1983, Ray met the love of his life, Dottie Hodges, who became his heart and soul. Their bond was strong and unwavering, and they shared a lifetime of love, companionship, and cherished memories. Together they raised a beautiful family and faced life’s joys and challenges side by side.

Ray’s most treasured role was that of a loving and devoted family man. He leaves behind his children Rasha Washington-Henry (Mario), Shameka Mozley, Jamie Howell-Banks (Rodney), Reco Washington (Melanie), and Ray Washington Jr. (Norma), 13 grandchildren, two great-grandsons, and a great goddaughter. His dedication to his children was unparalleled, and he found immense joy in spending time with them. Whether it was cooking delicious meals (especially his baked beans), traveling, or undertaking various projects around their homes, Ray’s love and support were always evident.

Despite the hardships brought about by his illness, Ray remained a pillar of strength and optimism. He faced his cancer diagnosis with bravery and determination, never losing faith that he would overcome the disease. Throughout his battle, he continued to draw strength from his family and friends and remained devoted to their happiness and well-being.

Ray Charles Washington will be remembered as a loving soul, a cherished man, and an inspiration to all who knew him. His unwavering dedication to his loved ones, his infectious optimism, and his brave spirit are etched into the hearts of those whose lives he touched.

In this time of grief, as we mourn the loss of Ray, let us also celebrate the profound impact he had on our lives. May his memory be a guiding light and a reminder to cherish the time we have with our loved ones. Ray’s legacy will live on through the love and resilience he instilled in his family, and his spirit will continue to inspire us all.

The Memorial Service will be at Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes & Crematory on Saturday, June 3, 2023. The visitation will be at 12 pm, followed by the Memorial Service at 1pm. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and share in the celebration of Ray’s life.

Rest in peace, Ray Charles Washington Sr. You will be deeply missed, but your memory will forever be a source of comfort and strength to all of us who had the privilege of knowing and loving you.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.jones-wynn.com. Jones-Wynn Funeral Home, Inc. and Crematory of Douglasville is in charge of the arrangements. 770-942-2311