Raymond “Ray” Woodcock

Raymond “call me Ray” Woodcock passed away on June 28, 2022 from recently diagnosed cancer that was not able to be treated.  Raymond is survived by his wife of 64 years Barbara, daughters Rebecca Sothoron (Kenny, Kelly, Joe, Garrett) and Susan Tisdale, (Richard, Alexis, Jennifer).  He was preceded in death by his first great grandchild Joseph.

Raymond worked at J.H. Chappell Plumbing and Heating for 48 years and retired as Vice-President in1998.  He was a Korean War veteran who kept in touch with his Army “buddies”.  He obtained his pilot’s license in 1965 and enjoyed recreational flying with friends out of the New Kent regional airport.  He also developed a love of snow skiing and was an active member in the Richmond Ski Club for many years. He enjoyed many family trips to the mountains at Seven Springs, Pennsylvania. He spent 25 years loving retirement and spending time with his children and grandchildren.  Raymond’s favorite saying was that he was “cautiously optimistic”.  He never met a person he didn’t immediately engage in conversation with, and his joy and energy were contagious to everyone around him.  Using a recent phrase of his, he is now flying up to heaven.  

The family will receive friends on Friday July 8th from 6 – 8pm at Richmond Coach and Mortuary, 8500 Staples Mill Rd., Henrico, VA, 23228.  Private interment.

Contributions can be made in Raymond’s honor to the USO in support of our United States military and their families.