Ray, thank you for being a part of my life, and letting me be a part of your journey. I don’t remember the first time we met but I can remember over the years your wonderful sense of humour and witty remarks but also your good yet not so practical life advice. You would laugh about my fashion sense when you’d see me with my ripped leggings on and ask if I could afford clothes without holes or asked if I got a good sale on them and your laugh would make me smile. That laugh and the memory of you will be with me forever as you, Ray, and Joan were like the grandparents I never really had, with my nana living in Auckland and my grandad always travelling. You have impacted me in many different ways and you and Joan have been a big part of my life and I appreciate all the things you’ve done for me. The baking and desserts I’d bring and you’d say how delicious they all were and that I’d have to make you more. All the birthdays you remembered and never failed to give me a card every year with a sneaky $5 dollars in there, and the Christmas baskets you gave every year. I share lots of memories with you and am grateful for every single one of them. The most recent being taking you to the supermarket a few weeks ago even though you weren’t allowed in and I offered to go in for you, you claimed I would get it wrong and you would have to go back so you may as well do it yourself. You were very stubborn. The workers said what a lovely granddaughter you had and you agreed with them and gave me your cheeky grin. There’s lots of times where you’ve made me smile, laugh and cry, I love every memory we shared. I will treasure these memories of you throughout the rest of my life.I was very upset to hear about your passing, losing family is very hard especially ones who have made such an impact in my life. I want to thank you for everything you have done for my family. I love and miss you Ray but i know you will enjoy your new adventure into the afterlife and I will see you again soon when my time comes.
Love always, Darci

Around 16 years ago i met my new neighbours. I never realised then how special they would become in my life. From being the cheeky neighbour next door giving me all kinds of sh** to a Grandfather figure I could rely on. Can honestly say Ray (and Joan) became more than just neighbours over the fence, they became family. Ray I'm going to miss you so much. May you Rest in Peace.