This site is dedicated to the memory of Ray Clarke.
Here are some thoughts and memories of Ray Clarke - son, husband, brother, father, Poppa, friend, colleague ...
I hope you enjoy sharing these memories. Please feel free to add your own thoughts and comments.
Ray was born and died whilst living in Rochford. He was an Essex boy through and through and was proud of his heritage. He spent many hours researching his family tree and enjoyed learning more about his extended family and ancestors.
Many people remember Ray as a good friend or colleague, hardworking and devoted to his family. He was also a very able musician and loved singing in a local choir and playing in the band. His musical talents and ability to spot errors and correct them were notable.
Ray was a keen armchair sportsman and would watch anything even remotely connected with sport on the TV, much to the family's annoyance. He supported his local rugby team and was often to be found at the side of the pitch on Saturday afternoons cheering them on.
Maybe less well known was his interest in growing vegetables. He had an allotment for a few years before his illness and managed to produce lots and lots of potatoes and few other veg! Maybe with more practice we could have had a more balanced diet.
Most importantly of all Ray was a wonderful husband, dad and Poppa. We complained that he was becoming a 'grumpy old man' but he loved being with his family and in the last few years enjoyed the privilege of his ever increasing brood of grandsons.
We told the boys that Poppa is now a star shining in the sky. All they need to do is look up and he's still there for them. Whatever your beliefs it is comforting to know that Ray lives on in the lives of his children and grandchildren and in our memories of him.
Ray, you were dearly loved and will be sorely missed.
Recent Donations
11 years ago
Pat Clarke
I miss you xx
12 years ago
Collin Webber
Ray and I were Eastwood Chorale both basses and, when I was a newbee, he was very supportive. His courage in attending the Haydn concert was admirable.
12 years ago
Pat Clarke
This sum represents the donations I received at Ray's funeral. Thank you all very much.
£255.00 (+ £63.75 Gift Aid)
Contribute
Help grow Ray's Tribute by adding messages or memories you'd like to share.
Thoughts
The thing I most admired Ray for was the unconditional love he had for my sister Pat, my nephews and nieces Matt, Katy, Anna and Neil, and my Great Nephews Dylan, Charlie, Noah, Thomas and Jacob. Nothing was ever too much trouble for Ray if it was for his family. Thankyou Ray for the love and care you gave my family! May you and they find peace. Gonna miss having my big brother around.
Love Bunchie (Yvonne to those not in the family) xx
yvonne-angel
16th December 2011
Ray although only knowing you since you joined the band we got through a lot together, Swanlake, knights of the round table, we were always having a good laugh. You were always ready to help and encourage me and others. shall miss my mucker. God rest.
jackiepete scott
15th December 2011
This is a great idea for everyone to share their memories of Dad.
My Dad would do anything for us - acted as our taxi driver whenever we called, came round to help with DIY, he even used to wash and brush my tangled hair as a child.
He couldn't say no very easily if we wanted something, like when I convinced him to let us get 2 kittens when I was younger, or how he used to buy Premier League stickers for mine and Neil's sticker albums every week.
He remembered our interests and things we liked and sometimes he'd phone me just to tell me that he'd seen something in a shop with cupcakes on that he knew I'd like.
My Dad was the best Dad I could've hoped for and I'll miss him loads.
Love you Dad xxx
annadivall
13th December 2011