Birth date: Jun 7, 1932 Death date: Sep 30, 2017
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Loy Ray Wilhelm, 85, of Kingsport passed away September 30, 2017 at Kingsport’s Holston Manor Nursing Home following a long decline into poor health. Ray was born June 17, 1932 in the Bloomingdale Community of Sullivan County, TN.Ray was the only child of the late Bob and Roe Dennison Wilhelm of Weber City, VA. He attended both Dobyns-Bennett and Lynn View High Schools, graduating from Lynn View in 1950. He proudly served during the Korean War era in the U. S. Air Force from 1952 – 1956 where he achieved the enlisted rank of Staff Sergeant. He was a professional architect/draftsman by trade and was employed by several different prominent construction companies during his long working career.Ray’s many activities over the years included; Pro Go Kart Racing, radio controlled model airplanes, and Civil War reenacting. He was founding member of the Greater Tri-Cities All American Soap Box Derby following and supporting the youth of America through the Derby both locally and nationally for many years. Ray produced two Kingsport Champions during his Derby days in 1968 and 1993. He was also a member of the Tri-Cities Aero Modelers, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Kingsport Antique & Rod Club, National Street Rod Association and the Bloomingdale Hardees Breakfast Club.Loy Ray Wilhelm is survived by his wife of 66 years, Betty Jo Quillen Wilhelm; his daughter, Nancy Wilhelm Fry (Jake); his son, Robert (Robbie) Wilhelm (Derinda); granddaughter, Heather N. Wilhelm; grandsons, Jonathan R. Wilhelm (Mary), John Fry (Jessica), Jacob Fry (Kelly) and Joseph Fry; great grandchildren, Jackson S. Wilhelm, Lennon A. Wilhelm and Charleigh Jo Fry.It was Ray’s personal wish to be cremated with no public services or visitations held. All the friends who truly knew Ray will understand and respect this last request. The Wilhelm family appreciates and thanks the dedicated staff of Holston Manor Nursing Home and all the great personal friends Ray held so dear during his long lifetime.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Lynn Wilhelm at 450 Oak Glen Circle, Fall Branch, TN, 37656 for the upkeep of the Wilhelm family cemetery located in Weber City, VA.The care of Loy Ray Wilhelm and his family has been entrusted to Oak Hill Funeral and Cremation Services.Read Obituary
I am so very sorry for your loss, Aunt betty, cousins Nancy and Robbie. My memories consist of a protective father, who always made sure the kids were doing the right thing. Nancy and I were very close and a lot alike, we hung out as kids, and enjoyed movies and then staying the night over at her parents house. Very caring parents. I love you and hope all will remember the tenacity, strength and will of a caring father and husband. I will for sure! Love always, Cristie.
Ray spent a lot of time at my house and always called me Mama Judy. He was my very favorite friends of Henry's and we shared some great times together. He and Henry are again together and trying to keep up with the conversation.
There are no words adequate....Such a special man. My heart aches for his family. He was a man of incredible stature and integrity. My condolences to his entire family.
It is a loss, deeply felt.
Judy and Tray Kistner
I will remember all of the times when Ray would stop down at the house and we would talk about cars. Love those memories. He will be missed. Friend and neighbor. Jerry Kimberling
Dad, Happy Trails Till We Meet Again... Love, Robbie & Dee.
I remember the old days down at Jims Motorcycle sales,we truly had some great times.It was a privilage to know you my friend.RIP Ray.
Knew Ray for many years ,good guy and great Reenacting friend. Always love talking about the old times with him around the campfire.
Gold bless
Wes V.
Robbie and Nancy, please know how deeply sorry I am to learn of your dear Daddy's passing. Prayers for all of your family during this very difficult time.
Vickie Childress McCall
Condolences too the Wilham family.Brother ray was a dear friend.
Sweets
