Walter Everett Ray
Walter Everett Ray, born June 16, 1946 to Walter Mason and Dymple Fields in Coffeyville, Kansas, entered into rest May 17, 2025. Walter was raised by is Grandmother Beatrice Clark, whom he lovingly called Tink Shell. Spoiled from the moment he came into this world Walter known to his family and friends as Brownie and his younger years and Rooster as he sprouted into manhood.
He attended Field Kindley High School graduating in 1964 and CCJC before being involuntarily enlisted in United States Army where he served in the 101st Airman Division, the "Screaming Eagles" in the Vietnam War. Walter was honorable discharged in October 1972 and moved to Denver, CO. to lay down roots Shortly after arriving in Denver, Walter met his wife Verssie and the two married in 1989. He worked as a mechanic and for various railroads over the years and retired from Union Pacific Railroad in 1996.
Walter and Verssie were world travelers and enjoyed cruises, fishing, and skiing. He was an avid ski instructor and took to the sloped with poise and grace. Walter and Verssie moved to Council Bluff, IA, where he owned and operated Walter's Automotive and Electric Resale for 30 years before returning to his hometown, Coffeyville, KS
Visitation for Walter will be Friday, June 6th at Mission Funeral Services, 502 S. Union from 2 to 6 p.m.
Going Home Service will be Saturday, June 7th at 10 a.m. at St. John Church of Faith, 602 W. Martin St., Coffeyville, KS. with Pastor Purley Wilson officiating.
Burial at Fairview Cemetery.
Comments
Walt you will be missed by all of us in Denver who knew and loved you. I tried my best to convince you to bring Verssie back to me in Denver when you retired. Alas Coffeeville won out and I saw how happy you both were there. RIP dear friend you will always be in our hearts and never forgotten. Love always, Faye & Reg ❤️
To: Walter Ray (Brownie) Family....Our sincere
Condolences & Prayers to all the family. He was a dear friend to me & Dotty (Sugar-Do) RIP!
Walter was as fine of a Neighbor and friend as anyone could have. He will be deeply missed. Loved to hear his joyful laughter and approach to living. Walter was a true man of faith.
Walter was an honorary BookerT Washington high school alumni. He loved us and we loved him. He was my buddy, we shared a love for jazz and would talk and pray for each other. Most important he married and loved my friend. I will miss hearing him call my name and his advice. Farewell my friend, take your rest❤️
Walter always loved to ask me how my family is doing. His love of family and his love to his wife and Faith was strong!! Prayers to Verrsie and family and dear friends.
Our deepest condolences to Verssie and her family. I truly enjoyed working with Verssie and hearing stories about Mr Walter. Much love and prayers for peace and comfort
Walter (ska) Rooster Ray, We have had many, many good times together. Sking and hanging out together over the years. I will always be filled with love for you and your family. I will miss our weekly calls and the laughter shared in our days of friendship. I will miss you road dog but understand you are with the Lord. Stay in Heavenly grace with our father. Much love my brother, Friend and buddy.
"ROOSTER" my father spoke of Rooster often. I remember meeting him and his beautiful wife. When he told me his nickname, it was like a celebrity, lol. I said Oh my your Rooster. We laughed. Every time we met it was a pleasure. I am glad we met up again on Mothers day. Rest in peace my friend. Mrs. Verssie we love you and lifting you in prayer.
Verssie, we are so sorry for your loss of Brownie. He was a wonderful man who loved people. Humorous, sensitive, smart, and loving are just a few words that describe him. We know you will miss him so much: we will be praying for you that our Lord will be with you and comfort you during this difficult time. We are unable to be at his “going home” services today but our thoughts and prayers will be with you. Love, Fred & Anna Marie
The thing I remember most about “Rooster” is his sense of humor and boisterous laugh. My sincere condolences to his wife and extended family. May God give you peace in the days ahead.
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of my old boyhood friend " Brownie." We used to play sandlot ball together in grade school. Him being from Cleveland grade
We are so sorry to hear of Walter’s passing. Prayers of comfort for Verssie and family. So difficult to lose friends from childhood. Many fun memories.