Obituary of Ray Benjamin Sykes, JR

In Loving Memory of Ray Benjamin Sykes Jr.

Pensacola, FL - Ray Sykes Jr., passed away at 79 in Pensacola, Florida, on June 20, 2023, after a fulfilling life and a well-deserved retirement. Ray was born on November 18, 1943, in Ridgeway, Pennsylvania, to Ray Sykes Sr. and Mary Sykes. He was the eldest of five siblings born to Ray and Mary: Ray, John, Marianne, Elizabeth, and Helen. Throughout his journey, he made a lasting impact on the field he loved and the lives of those around him.

Ray's true joy lay in the moments spent with his family and his hobbies. He was married to Nancy Anne Sykes for 55 years. As a father, Ray was a pillar of strength, guidance, and unwavering love. His three children, Thomas, Justin, and Daniel, were the foundation of his legacy, and he took great pride in witnessing their growth and accomplishments. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Matthew, Nathan, Benjamin, Kersten, and Mia.

As Ray journeyed through life, he embraced a spiritual path that took him in different directions. During his midlife, he found solace and purpose in serving as a pastor for Unity Church. Ray's calling to guide and support others in their spiritual journeys was evident in his compassionate nature and his commitment to uplifting the lives of those around him.

Later in life, Ray embarked on a new chapter and adopted Buddhism as his religion. His exploration of Buddhist teachings and practices brought him a sense of peace, mindfulness, and deeper understanding of the world. Ray's adoption of Buddhism allowed him to cultivate compassion, wisdom, and a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of all beings.

After attending Lehigh University and earning a degree in electrical engineering, Ray had a very successful career in the railroad industry starting with Electro-Motive, General Motors (GM), followed by leadership roles at Peaker Services (PSI) and Rail Systems before retiring in 2005. Ray embraced retirement and found tranquility in the welcoming city of Pensacola, Florida with his beloved wife Nancy. He sought solace and contentment in the coastal charm and warm climate of this vibrant community. Retirement allowed Ray to fully indulge in his passions and enjoy the fruits of his labor.

During his retirement, Ray also had the opportunity to engage in his beloved hobbies. He found joy in playing golf, a sport that allowed him to challenge himself while fostering camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts. He also spent his time learning and becoming an expert coffee roaster which he shared with family and friends. Additionally, he was a volunteer for the State of Florida Long-Term Care Ombudsman program and Catholic Charities serving impoverished members of the community.

Ray was also a lifelong learner. He had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a love for books that continued throughout his retirement years. Ray immersed himself in a variety of subjects, expanding his horizons and nurturing his intellectual curiosity. He found fulfillment in delving into literature, philosophy, history, personal financial management, and other disciplines, always seeking to deepen his understanding of the world.

Ray's passing in Pensacola leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His expertise, love for nature, passion for golf, and thirst for knowledge will be forever remembered. His legacy will continue to inspire others to embrace their passions, cherish their surroundings, and lead fulfilling lives.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Ray Sykes Jr., a remarkable individual who made significant contributions to his field, sought spiritual enlightenment, reveled in the joys of retirement in Pensacola, and left an enduring impact on the lives he touched. May he be reborn into a new existence that leads him to enlightenment.

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