Walter Raymond Ross, Jr., known by all as “Ray”, passed away peacefully at his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on August 15, 2025, at the age of 61.
Born December 28, 1963, in Connecticut, Ray lived a life full of grit, music, and the open road. A framer by trade, he built with his hands for decades in construction, but his true passion was the freedom he found riding his Harley. To Ray, there was no other bike worth riding, and he made sure everyone knew it. Some of his favorite memories were trips to the Smoky Mountains, with his wife Deb riding on the back, the two of them tucked away in mountain cabins after long, winding rides together.
Ray and Deb shared more than 30 years side by side, raising their two sons, Jorge and Gregory, and creating a life filled with adventure, laughter, and music. He was the kind of dad who passed down not only his work ethic but his love of a good jam, with the Grateful Dead, Frank Zappa, The Doors, and Creedence Clearwater Revival forever blaring in the background.
He had a soft spot for his Australian shepherd, Shelby, and an easy laugh with close friends like Dorothy and Brad. He also enjoyed his quiet moments, often relaxing with a little smoke and a lot of music.
Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Ann Ross, and his beloved wife, Deborah Ross, who passed away in 2022.
He is survived by his sons Jorge (Rachel) and Gregory; his grandsons Matthew and Alexander; his brothers, Bill and Mike; his loyal companion Shelby; and his friends Dorothy and Brad who will miss his free spirit.
A memorial service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held at Altmeyer Funeral Home, 5033 Rouse Drive, Virginia Beach. The date and time will be announced once finalized.
Ray lived life on his own terms. Hard work, good music, Harley riding, and being surrounded by the people he loved. His spirit will live on in every winding road, every cabin in the Smokies, and every good song played loud.
