Ray L. Curtis' Obituary
Miami businessman, Ray L. Curtis, 83, passed away September 4, 2013 at Freeman East Health System in Joplin, MO after a lengthy illness. Ray was born July 13, 1930 in Bristow, OK to James and Goldie (Schultz) Curtis. He was a graduate of Bristow High School, Class of 1949. He served his country with the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Ray was a licensed funeral director, successful businessman, and mentor. At a young age, he owned Central Ambulance in Tulsa. He later dabbled in the tin business for a while, selling siding. He was the owner and operator of Curtis Building Supply in Miami for many years. With a love for service and people, Ray sold his business and returned to the funeral service industry. He bought Global Funeral Services, Midtown Tulsa Chapel in Tulsa and continued his work as a funeral director. He was a member of the Oklahoma Funeral Director's Association, and was a recipient of his fifty year pin. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge, Tulsa Scottish Rite Consistory, and Akdar Shrine Temple. After several years in Tulsa, Ray made the decision to move back to his home in Miami, due to his health. He is survived by 1 son, Larry Curtis of Tulsa; 2 daughters, Carolyn Hildebrand of Everett, WA, and Janiss Turner of Jenks; 4 grandchildren, Rocky Moore, Echo Byfield, Briaa Winston, and Andrea Shelton; 4 great-grandchildren, Chloe Moore, Cooper Moore, Kaleigh Ray Byfield, and Keaton Curtis Byfield; 1 sister, Mary Dobson of Sapulpa; and a host of friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; wives, Patsy Wyatt Curtis, Jewel Turner Curtis, and Emma Williams Curtis; 1 daughter, Sally Williams; 1 brother, Arville Curtis; 1 sister, Vivian Wood; 2 nephews, Kent Curtis and Willis Wood; 1 niece, Teresa Wood; and his faithful companion, his dog, "Jessie". Ray will lie in state at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home in Miami, where a visitation for family and friends will be held from 6-7 p.m. Friday. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 7, 2013 at the G.A.R. Cemetery, Miami, OK. Interment following.
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