Raymond (Ray) A. Minch, CMSgt, USAF, Retired, passed away on March 9, 2024. A resident of Virginia since 1978, Ray was born on May 14, 1938, in Elizabeth, NJ, and raised in Rahway, NJ. He joined the Air Force in 1956 and proudly served his country honorably for 26 years, retiring from military service in 1982 at Langley AFB, VA. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he completed tours of duty in Japan, Thailand, Germany, and the Philippines, as well as numerous assignments stateside. His military decorations and awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars. Upon military retirement, he continued to serve our country in the defense industry for 19 more years. 

Ray was a member of Denbigh United Presbyterian Church for 43 years. He was predeceased by his precious daughter Janice Fiedorowicz, parents Leo and Louise Minch, two sisters, Vivienne Wehrle and Arlene Savoca, and a brother, Lee Minch. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 64 years, Elaine; two cherished daughters, Deborah Vandromme (Larry) and granddaughter Dana Beaudry (Adam), Terri Osner (Brent); and granddaughter Larae; son-in-law David Fiedorowicz and grandson Ryan (Faith), great-grandson Jaxon, sisters Ruth Billich and Helene Limone, sister-in-law Lynne Yates, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins,

A memorial service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on March 16 at Denbigh United Presbyterian Church, Newport News. The family will receive friends following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project or a charity of your choice.