It’s with great sadness that we share the news that UUCUC friend and choir member, Ray Watson, died in a tragic accident in the Chicago area on December 13. Ray was part of our choir for the few months he was with us earlier in the year, and also sang at the spring coffee house. Ray also participated in the April 28, 2019 Sunday service, Please Call Me By My True Name. Ray’s talents, beautiful voice, and irrepressible spirit left an indelible impression upon those who crossed his path and he will be sorely missed.

Funeral services honoring Ray’s life will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at the First Baptist Church, 1804 South 9th Street, Mattoon, Illinois 61938 with Pastor Dennis Strawn officiating. Burial will follow at Drummond Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 20, 2019 at the church. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Memorial donations may be given to Ray’s sister Liberty’s College Fund in care of Liberty Watson.

The photo of Ray is courtesy of The Celebration Company at The Station Theatre. This is a photo of Ray performing in “Taming of the Shrew,” June 2019