Jason Stoner
I was blessed to meet first Maria, then Ray, in 1997 at The Ohio State University. I quickly became friends with an amazing couple whose magnificent and extraordinary personalities allowed us to remain friends to this day. Sometimes we hadn't talked for months, even years, but everytime we saw each other we picked up right where we left off. I'll be forever grateful for the simple things in life that Ray and Maria helped me slow down to enjoy-talking about over Sauza tequila at Neighbors Bar and Restaurant or their home. Everytime I sat with Ray he revealed some amazing event he experienced in life as if it were commonplace, such as when I told him I was living in Charlotte and he proceeded to tell me all about his Army training in Pisgah National Forest. Such an amazing couple-neither are without a smile on their faces at any time. Ray's voice shall always remain in my thoughts-helping me see the best in situations and helping me smile and laugh my way through them. Ray and Maria shall always remain two of my closest and most significant friends. Thank you Ray for the fond and amazing memories I will tuck away and bring out when the sun shines on me!