Roy Lee Raley Sr.'s Obituary
Roy Lee Raley, Sr., 71, of Eustis, FL, went home to be with the Lord on September 8, 2009. Despite a sudden diagnosis of pancreatic and liver cancer just a little over a month before, Roy still held to his philosophy that "everyday is a good day." He spent his final days at home surrounded by his loving family and an outpouring of friends and greeting cards. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and co-worker, Roy was a warm and humble family man known for his faith in God and a great love for this country. He was also known for helping others, living by the Golden Rule and being an optimist. On September 10, 2009, Roy would have celebrated 50 years of marriage to Sheila—his sweetheart and the love of his life. Roy was survived by his wife Sheila, their three children Roy Lee, Jr. (Christine) of Oviedo, Sheryl Marcine Raley DeTellis (Timothy) of Altamonte Springs and Jack Leonard (Kelly) of Eustis as well as his brother James Raley of Byhalia, Mississippi and sister Flora Mae Mills of Water Valley, Mississippi. Roy was grandfather to six grandchildren -Vincent Matthew, Richelle Lee, Luc Timothy, Kate Mallory, Colby Jackson and Morgan Krisanne. Roy was born and raised in Water Valley, Mississippi. He moved to Florida and began a career with Publix in 1960. He retired from Publix as a district manager after nearly 37 years. He and Sheila enjoyed retirement tending to their family who live in Central Florida as well as tending their wonderful gardens. The Raley family patriarch had passed away, but his family was comforted by the legacy of love and integrity of a great and humble man.Visitation was held in the Hamlin & Hilbish Chapel on Saturday, September 12,2009, from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. Funeral services were held in the First Baptist Church of Eustis on Sunday, September 13,2009, at 3 p.m. with Pastor Tim Grosshans officiating. Final resting place is in Greenwood Cemetery, Eustis. The family requested those desiring to direct memorials to Cornerstone Hospice, 2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares, Fla. 32778.
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