Raymond Grace - Obituary

aymond James Grace, III, “Little Ray”, age 65, an 11 year resident of Riva, and formerly of Cheverly, died at his home on April 14, 2009 after a year and a half bout with esophageal cancer. Born on February 22, 1944 in Abilene, Texas, he graduated from Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC in 1962 and from Xavier University in 1966. Ray was the founder and president of Creative Direct Response, a direct marketing firm in Crofton, from 1982 until his retirement in 2007. He served in the US Navy as a Seabee during the Viet Nam War and was a founding member of the Association of Direct Response Fundraising Counsel. He enjoyed golf, the ski club, working in the yard and travelling. He is survivied by his wife, Reezie Grace, whom he married in 1969; one son, Brian Grace of Riva, two daughters, Mary McCarthy of Davidsonville, Melissa Patterson of Edgewater; three brothers, Timothy Grace of Arnold, Patrick Grace of Kensington, Michael Grace of Annapolis; one sister, Mary Robinson of Davidsonville; four grandchildren, Grace, Chloe & Emmy McCarthy & Jack Patterson Friends are invited to Ray's Life Celebration at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W., Central Ave., Davidsonville on Thursday April 16th from 6 pm. to 8 p.m. where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, April 17 at 11:30 a.m. Entombment Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Carmody Open c/o Gonzaga College High School, 19 Eye Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001. Arrangements by Kalas Funeral Home, Edgewater, Please sign online guestbook at www.kalasfuneralhomes.com