Raymond Nash Jr.

NASH, Raymond (Sonny) Jr. Born in Akron Ohio on June 13, 1940, Ray died peacefully after a short illness in his home in California, on March 11, 2021, surrounded by family and friends. Ray was proceeded in death by parents, Ray Sr. and Dorothy, and sister Penny (Charlie) Davis. Surviving family include brothers Mike Nash, Ron (Tina) Nash, nieces Bailey, Cindy, Jonelle, Lynette & Taylor, nephew Michael (Heather) Pavlic, great -niece Sydney; great-nephews Joey & Mikey, uncle Victor Klaco and a host of cousins. Ray had a broad circle of life-long friends, and his loyalty to his country, family, and friends was unwavering. Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Ray graduated from East High School in 1958 and was a talented athlete. He then enlisted in the United States Airforce as a Military Police Officer where he was stationed in Lakenheath England and continued to play football, baseball and basketball for the Air Force. After being honorably discharged, Ray left Ohio for California with $200, a suitcase, and a dream. With a pioneering spirit, he envisioned a life of opportunity and prosperity in the Golden State. While in L.A., Ray became a proud member of “The Hitmen,” a winning softball team comprised of his best buddies winning the 1986 City Championship of Los Angeles. Ray was also an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeye football team, with an extensive collection of scarlet and gray memorabilia and a beloved cat named “Buckeye.” Ray eventually settled in Temecula where his entrepreneurialism, marketing skills, and business acumen led to his establishment of Budget Contractors Schools, an extraordinarily successful company. Ray was a cowboy at heart, and Temecula was the ideal residence for him. He often recalled that when he first visited Temecula, he saw two cowboys in what looked like a gunfight in Old Town, just like in the wild West movies he so enjoyed. While it turned out to be a simulated gunfight, at that moment, Ray knew that Temecula was where he belonged. Native American and Western décor were prominent features in his home. Entertaining and cooking for friends and family was a passion of Ray’s—his famous barbecued ribs were a special draw. He kept a guest book in his home’s foyer, delighting in the comments visitors would leave after spending time with him. Iconic dance moves, charm, and a dapper style contributed to Ray’s popularity. Later in life, his favorite “gal” was “Maybellene,” his pristinely restored, award-winning 1958 pink Cadillac. Ray was a colorful and vibrant soul-- generous and loving, and a hero to those of us who were fortunate to have him in our lives. As the saying goes, Ray “never met a stranger”—to him, every person was a friend he hadn’t yet met. A celebration of his life will be held on April 17, 2021 at the VFW Post #4089, 28075 Diaz Road, Temecula, CA 92590 from 3-6pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Sonata Hospice in Temecula www.sonatahospice.com, or 4 Paws 4 Patriots https://4paws4patriots.org