Raymond John Carter (28 Sep 1947 - 14 Apr 2021)

In loving memory of Raymond John Carter who sadly passed away on 14th April 2021.

Ray was born the last of five children (Ron, Jean, Maureen and Alan were his siblings) to Elsie and George Carter in Lewisham. Brought up on a Bellingham council estate, he developed an interest in animals and nature from a very young age. He also developed a lifelong love of music, with taste ranging from jazz through blues, country, rock and rock 'n’ roll. Ray Charles, Fats Domino, Chuck Berry and the Rolling Stones were favourites, alongside big band jazz and so many others.

Ray started work at the Stock Exchange in the City and developed another hobby - photography, favouring black & white for many years. By 1969, he was married to Maureen and, with their first baby Simon, they were living in Balham. In 1970, Emma came along and they moved to Westcliff. He joined the Natural History Society in Southend, and the family maintained an allotment and acquired an ever-increasing number of animals.

In his late 50s, he left the City life behind and retired early. In the following years, he enjoyed going to local pubs in Leigh and Southend, listening to great live music and getting to know the musicians and artists who frequented them. Unbeknown to the family, he continued to grow his collections – books, CDs and magazines – and this now became very much a part of his life.

Unfortunately, by the age of 65, he was suffering from undiagnosed but serious diabetes, which led to amputation of his left leg. Life became difficult, although he still liked to go to local pubs and listen to music. He eventually succumbed to cancer in April 2021.

Attendance at the funeral is by invitation only.