Surrounded by family in love, the Rev. Ray T. Vinson, 81, of Stafford, Ky., went to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 25, 2013.
The Rev. Vinson was born on Aug. 3, 1931, to James and Beulah Vinson in McRoberts, Ky.
The Rev. Vinson attended Jenkins High School in Jenkins, Ky. After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and served during the Korean War. After his time in the service, he worked several jobs before surrendering into the ministry.
The Rev. Vinson was a called man of God. He completed his master's degree in theology at Luther Rice Seminary. The Rev. Vinson served faithfully as a minister, counselor, teacher and friend.
He was a professor at Fredericksburg Bible Institute. The Rev. Vinson retired from Ramoth Baptist Church in 2007 after serving 43 years as a pastor. His ministry included serving as pastor in churches in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. He had a true passion for serving others and leading others to Christ.
The Rev. Vinson leaves behind a loving wife, Joyce Kuhl Vinson, who was his devoted caregiver in his last years of life. They were blessed to spend 56 wonderful years together.
His survivors also include his children, Pam Null and her husband, David, the Rev. Ray "Tony" Vinson II and his wife, Lydia, and Robin Lopez and her husband, John. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Jaynie Hudson (Chris), Ginger Bryant (Jody), Lindsey Vinson, Carley Null, Jordan Vinson, Jase Lopez, Hunter Lopez and Levi Lopez. The Rev. Vinson was also blessed to have four great-grandchildren, Mackenzie Hudson, Aaron Hudson, Caleb Bryant, and Jackson Hudson.
The Rev. Vinson was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and six brothers.
Celebration of Life service was Saturday, June 29, at Ramoth Baptist Church in Stafford, Va. The Revs. Paige Bowman and Brent Vickery officiated.
Interment followed in the church cemetery with military honors.