Obituary of Raynor Clark

Raynor W. Clark, 76, of Killingworth, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2014. Ray was born on May 17, 1937, in Mineola, NY, the son of Adrian N. and Hope (James) Clark. Ray is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jane (Osborn) Clark, and his children: James Clark and wife Heather of Higganum, Scott Clark and wife Holly of Ross, CA. and daughter Sarah Karmon and husband David of Cambridge, MA. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Wyn, Griffin, Eloise and Anna who gave him such joy in recent years. Ray graduated from Manhasset High School in Long Island in 1955 and from Brown University in 1959. He served in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1964, where he rose to the rank of Captain and served a tour in Korea. Following the Air Force, Ray worked for Southern New England Telephone for 17 years before switching careers to follow his passion and work in the fire service. Prior to retiring in 2002, he spent the last 16 years of his career with the Connecticut Office of the State Fire Marshal, where he really enjoyed his work and developed many great friendships. Outside of family and work, Ray dedicated much of his life to public service, mainly in the fire service. He was a member of the Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company for 23 years, serving as Fire Chief from 1977 to 1981. As one of the original incorporators of Valley Shore Emergency Communications in 1976, he helped establish a regional emergency dispatch center and helped bring emergency 911 service to Killingworth and several surrounding towns. He served as Secretary of Valley Shore Emergency Communications from 1976 to 1980. Ray also served as Fire Marshal for the Town of Killingworth for 17 years and as Secretary Treasurer of Valley Shore Mutual Aid Association for 15 years. Ray was an avid fan of antique automobiles. He owned and restored numerous vehicles over the years. His favorite was a 1936 Ford Phaeton, and most recently he owned a 1936 Ford pickup with custom sideboards handmade by his cousin Joe Davis. Visitation will be on Friday, January 10, 2014 from 9:00AM until 11:00AM at the Congregational Church in Killingworth, United Church of Christ, 273 Route 81 in Killingworth. A memorial service will follow officiated by the Rev. Martha Bays. Burial will be privately held by the family in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company, 333 Route 81, Killingworth, CT 06419, or the Killingworth Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 749, Killingworth, CT 06419.