Raymond Holcomb

Raymond Clayton Holcomb (Ray,) beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who touched countless lives, was the son of Clarence and Jessie Holcomb.

He was born March 25, 1939 in Leonard, Okla. He passed away in his sleep at Whidbey General Hospital, Dec.8, 2015. Preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and a sister, Ray was next to the youngest of the children.

He joined the Navy in 1957 and retired in 1977. He received several Defense Service Medals and Good Conduct Awards.

He was stationed in San Diego, San Francisco and Stockton, Calif.; Adar, Alaska; Australia; and Okinawa. While he attended several Navy schools, his wife and son traveled with him.

He came to Oak Harbor, Wash. his last duty station in 1974, and retired here in 1977.

Ray was a private, quiet and gentle man. He was an avid sportsman, hunter, fisherman and loved the outdoors.

Gardening and most of his labors were given away, with joy to be able to share. Ray also enjoyed RV traveling with his wife, son, grandchildren and mother–in-law.

Ray is survived by his wife Rachel of 56 and a half years; son Raymond Jr. and daughter-in-law Kim Holcomb of Ferndale, Wash.; grandson Reece Holcomb of Seattle; and granddaughter Courtney Holcomb of Ferndale, Wash.; and many nieces and nephews.

Ray will be missed by all who loved him.

A small intimate service was held by Pastor Geist on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015, at Bible Baptist Church in Oak Harbor, followed by internment at Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville.