Ray Woods was one of my real friends at Rotary East. Since I became a full-time member I often sat at Ray's table, in the back center (closest to the food, farthest from the podium). We often talked about my job(s) -- which he found interesting; the things we had in common (my birthplace, Milwaukee: a city he worked in and appreciated); companies I knew (Cutler-Hammer, where my Dad worked: a place where Ray consulted in Milwaukee way back when). Ray and his wife Ardis(sp?) who played a Victorian tour guide for many years in Savannah, were fixtures in Savannah and its incredible lifestyle.
Ray was a gentle yet strong man -- always interested in the other person, even when their name(s) would sometimes elude him. Ray finally got my name right -- after many weeks; even handling the intricate foreignness of my last name--Mrochinski.
I really appreciated the kindness and integrity that Ray possessed -- a real Rotarian, a kind and giving human being, an incredible example for others. Ray Woods passed away on April 10, 2013. Rest in Peace, my friend.
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