Raymond Louis Wilson, Jr., 95, of Warren, RI, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, in Bristol, RI. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Ray lived a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to those he held dear.

Born on June 12, 1929 to Raymond L. and Helen (Borden) Wilson, Ray grew up in Fall River, MA, and graduated from Coyle High School. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in English from Tufts College before proudly serving as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Marines during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for valor in combat.

After returning home, Ray married the love of his life, Evelyn (McKeon) Wilson, and together they built a warm and lively home with their seven children. A dedicated educator, he earned his Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Connecticut and spent 26 wonderful years as principal of Westbrook Elementary School in Westbrook, CT, where he touched the lives of countless students and teachers.

Ray had an incredible sense of humor, a sharp wit, and a gift for making people feel welcome. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by his big family, whether it was sharing stories, telling jokes or passing on his love of sports—especially tennis, which he played well into his 70s. An accomplished athlete, he played basketball, football, and baseball at Tufts, and was a member of the team that went to the 1950 College World Series.

In retirement, Ray and Evelyn moved to Warren, RI, where they embraced their golden years. They traveled extensively, forming close bonds with dear friends in England, whom they visited regularly. Ray's faith was central to his life, and he found great joy in serving his church communities at St. Jean Baptiste and St. Mary of the Bay as a lector, communion minister to the sick, and choir member.

Ray was predeceased by his beloved Evelyn, his brother Richard C. Wilson, his sister Helen M. Nogueira, his son Daniel L. Wilson, his grandson Keith L. Wilson, and his nephew Michael C. Wilson. He leaves behind a loving legacy in his children: Marilyn Alvord (Judd) of Parker, CO; daughter-in-law Nella Wilson of Middletown, CT; Geoffrey Wilson (Mary) of Mont Vernon, NH; Kathleen Taylor (Timothy) of Wallingford, CT; Eileen Urbanowicz (Mark) of Higganum, CT; Elizabeth Pirruccio (Ed Knapp) of New Smyrna, FL; and Jane Current (Dana) of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. He leaves also his brother-in-law Raymond Nogueira and a cousin, Roger Wilson, and several nieces and nephews. He was the proud grandfather of 14 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom will forever cherish his love, wisdom, and humor.

Ray’s life was one well-lived—full of love, adventure, and devotion to family, faith, and community. His warmth and laughter will be deeply missed but will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Services are with Smith Funeral & Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Rd. Warren, RI, 02885. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 10AM in St. Mary of the Bay Parish, 645 Main Street, Warren, followed by burial in the columbarium at St. Jean Baptiste Cemetery, Vernon Street, Warren.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made to the Raymond L. Wilson Scholarship administered by the Westbrook Foundation, Inc. www.westbrookfoundation.org/for-donors/

For directions or tributes, please visit: www.wjsmithfh.com.