Raymond Oliver Williamson, 92

“Fair winds and following seas to a life well lived and a man well loved.” (Traditional Navy Farewell)

Raymond Oliver Williamson, born to Oliver Gustav and Ava Williamson on April 16, 1933, in Townsend, Mass., joined his heavenly family Oct. 16, 2025. In addition to his parents, he was reunited with his sons, Paul and Glenn; his sisters, Lorraine and Janet; and his favorite canine companion, Denali, who was a very good girl.

Ray was a force of nature, a bulldozer of a man who loved as hard as he worked. He lived a long, industrious life as an entrepreneur and an opportunist, never a stagnant moment or an opportunity missed. He enrolled in the Navy and, after four years, found a more lucrative deal being offered by the Coast Guard and served in the Coast Guard for another four years.

After travelling the world in the military, Ray settled back in New Hampshire, never staying for long. However, he was always looking for a better life for his family. He was a logger, a mover, a truck driver, and a diesel mechanic, but his most important role was as a single parent wrangling a couple of rambunctious boys.

He quickly turned his hard work into businesses, always trading up, and in 1993, he bought a gas station and met the love of his life, his perfect partner in work and play, and his wife of 31 years. Together, they purchased a hotel and another gas station, all while helping their family succeed in their own endeavors. They were a formidable team, working harder in their 70s than many people half their age. Finally earning a well-deserved retirement, they travelled all over the majority of the United States, making many friends and memories along the way.

Ray is survived by his wife, Joan; sisters Aggie (Ken) and Margie (Jim); grandson Allen; granddaughter Jen; and three great-grandchildren. From his bonus family, he is survived by daughters, Kim (Bert) and Sue (Dave); granddaughters: Shayla, Michelle, Jessica, Brittany and Rachel; grandson, Eric and 16 more great-grandchildren.

Private family services were held at Yates Funeral Home on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2025. Please visit Ray’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.