Quotes About Ray Gargus

Recently, I’ve enjoyed reading comments on the influence of Ray Gargus on the lives of many.  Ray was a long time member of Weatherly Heights Baptist Church (WHBC) in Huntsville, Alabama where he served as a deacon, chairperson of various committees including search committees for pastor and minister of youth, but his heart was as a volunteer in the youth ministry which began in 1970.

Here are some things people have said about him in emails and on Facebook:

Jane Smith: “He was always a great friend to me at WHBC...What I remember most about Ray Gargus was his love for WHBC and his untiring love for the youth. He never came in the office and just asked me ‘how's it going?’ He always had time to sit down and listen to ‘how's it going.’"

Kerry Wilks:  “…I'm sure I'm only one of many, many people who were influenced by this wonderful man.”

Toyin Augustus:  “…Ray was an amazing individual who left memories in our hearts that we will never forget... he will be ever missed and ever loved!”

Mike Malone:  “I am saddened by the passing of Ray Gargus…As a member of the youth group there in the 80's, RG, as he was known to us punk kids, was an important fixture in our church life…RG, go with grace and love knowing you touched so many lives with your work. To not see ...you in the halls of Weatherly makes my heart ache…Ray Gargus was an amazing man who led an interesting life. His impact on the youth at Weatherly cannot be expressed with simple words….I'll never forget all the times we tried to sneak out of Camp Hargis that were foiled by RG. All of us could recognize his profile in the dark. I'll never forget RG and all he's meant to me and to the church…Weatherly Heights Baptist Church has lost one of the greats…”

Whitney Jimmerson Sparrow:  “...He was an incredible man and I know so many thought, and continue to think, so highly of him.”

Lisa Malone: “He had a tremendous impact on Bryant and all the youth whose lives he touched. What a gracious man. Heaven is richer and we are poorer for his passing.”

Kelly Bradford Howard: "He was a great influence in all our lives...Ray was my Sunday school teacher. His wisdom was great and always made me want to listen. His stories were never ending but i did not mind. Even seeing him 20 plus years later he still gave me a hug and asked how I was doing...

These are just a handful of comments of Ray’s impact.  Our lives have been greatly enhanced by Ray’s compassionate, humorous, and constant care.  Let’s keep telling the stories and passing on the same compassionate, humorous care for the younger ones that surround us now.