Raymond P. James

Raymond James, Sr., passed away peacefully in his home on the morning of November 20, 2018, from bone cancer; he was born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1940, in Los Angeles, California, to the late John James and Rose Steinart James. Ray began his adult life in 1964 at the Lazy J Ranch in Perris raising cattle and operating a feed store and nursery. At the same time Ray worked in the Aerospace industry for 43 years and much to his delight experienced many developments in space exploration and flight. His hobbies included an avid interest in trains and railways. His yearly creation of a railway and Christmas town display, always delighted his grandchildren, neighbors, and friends. Additionally, Ray purchased and parked on rails, a “retired” caboose which he and his wife, Anita, frequented for rest and relaxation, during their getaways in Arizona. Ray is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Anita James, his five children, Cynthia Carroll, Menifee; Emily Schmuff, Riverside; Ray James, Jr., Menifee; Jason James, Perris; and Patty Guilkey, Phoenix, Arizona.  Ray dearly loved and enjoyed times with his 15 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren who reside in California, Arizona and Idaho.  Ray Sr. was preceded in death by his son Michael DeGoche, and three grandsons, Jesse and Joshua DeGoche and Vonn M. Guilkey II.

Miss Me, But Let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room,

Why cry for a soul set free,

Miss me a little, but not too long,

And not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we once shared,

Miss me, but let me go.

For this is a journey we all must take

And each must go alone.

It’s all a part of the Master’s Plan,

A  step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick at heart,

Go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds,

Miss me, but let me go.

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