Obituary of Ray Barbour

Ray Wilson Barbour 84 of Roanoke went to be with the Lord on Friday January 31, 2014 at Friendship Health and Rehab. He was preceded by his parents, William Daniel and Susie Josephine Barbour. Mr. Barbour served proudly in the United States Army and was a retiree of General Electric. Ray was the father of none, but he adopted "all kids" of his immediate friends, Robert and Doris Smith, David and Iva Smith, Larry and Dianne Vest and "Granny" Violet Vest. He spent all holidays at these three houses. He was the "Santa" to the kids and Godfather to some. Ray loved the Lord and his church, Belmont Presbyterian Church and later Shenandoah Baptist Church, He is survived by his brother, William Lewis Barbour and sister-in-law, Jessie Spears Barbour of Richmond, Virginia; along with his "adopted kids" and dear friends. He is a kind and gentle person that will dearly be missed by all who knew him. Family would like to say "thank you" to all the caregivers at Friendship Health and Rehab for all their care for Ray. A graveside service celebrating Ray's life will be held 1:00pm Monday February 3, 2014 in Mountain View Cemetery in Vinton, Va. with Pastors Kevin Smith and Albin Crutchfield officiating. Friends may visit with the family Sunday February 2, 2014 from 2:00-4:00pm at Simpson Funeral Home. You may send your condolences to the family by visiting www.simpsonfuneral.com. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory, 366-0707.