CUMBERLAND — Charles Raymond Evans, known to most as “Ray”, 91, died peacefully at his home in the presence of his wife of 64 years, Betty (Adams), on Nov. 19, 2012.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents, William D. and Emily May (Bolbach) Evans from Fairfax Street in South Cumberland; by his sister, Jane Evans, by his brother, Bill Evans, also of Cumberland; and by two great-grandchildren, Faith and Gabriel Hansel.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother, Bob Evans, of Peabody, Mass.; his five children, Darcy DuVall (husband, Bill), Carol Evans-Muller (husband, Chick), Dave Evans (wife, Sandy), Suzie Snyder (husband, Jimbo) and Beth Evans. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Billy, Matt, Jessica, Josh, Ryan, Jolie, Jenny, and Bryant; two step-grandchildren, Lisa and Kara; nine great-grandchildren, Elijah, Olivia, Mason, Amelia, Drew, Aidan, Abbey, Luke and Joey; and by four step-great-grandchildren, Mariah, Sha-niece, Keisha, and Kristen.
Ray graduated from Fort Hill in 1939 and attended Frostburg State Teachers College. He enlisted in the United States Army on March 16, 1942, and served in the Pacific Theater in India, Burma and China. Ray was trained to fly the L-5 Liaison, popularly known in World War II as the “flying Jeep”. Ray served under General Channault in a division of the “Flying Tigers.” He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in a special ceremony at a base in West China for flying near and over enemy lines. He acted as a spotter for enemy aircraft and flew missions to supply troops with food, ammunition, and medical supplies. He was also awarded the Air Medal. While stationed in China, his squadron of the Flying Tigers was cited several times for their performances.
After his Honorable Discharge in June, 1945, Ray worked at Rosenbaum’s De-partment Store and then began working at Vandegrift’s Music Shop, where he stayed until John Vandegrift retired. In 1977, he opened Ray’s Record Shop in Frostburg and retired from the record business in 1986, after 36 years. Throughout most of his working career he also played trombone in area big bands, including the Gentleman of Note and the Cavaliers. Following his retirement, he enjoyed 26 years with his wife, family, and friends. His interests in music and politics continued throughout his life.
Friends will be received at the Scarpelli Funeral Home P.A., 108 Virginia Ave., Cumberland, on Friday, Nov. 23, 2012 from 11 a.m. to noon.
A memorial service will be conducted at the funeral home on Friday at noon with the Rev. Harold R. McClay Jr., officiating.
Inurnment of his ashes will be conducted at a later date at the Maryland State Veterans Cemetery, Rocky Gap, Flintstone.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to any organization which assists veterans.
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CHARLES R. “RAY” EVANS
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CHARLES R. “RAY” EVANS
CHARLES R. “RAY” EVANS [Cumberland]
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