Charles Ray Honaker

In Loving Memory of Charles Ray Honaker
January 13, 1947– December 14, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles Ray Honaker on December 14,
2024, at the age of 77. Ray was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle,
and friend who touched the lives of all who knew him.
Born on January 13, 1947, in Charleston, West Virginia, Ray grew up with an impeccable work
ethic, a fondness for people, and a generosity of spirit. He graduated from Christiana High
School and worked his way through college at the University of Delaware, where he met and fell
in love with Sarah Powers. He later earned his MPH from Johns Hopkins, afforded the
opportunity through a senatorial grant.
He married Sarah (Sally) on August 30, 1969, and they built a family full of love, laughter, and
cherished traditions. His education and professional career yielded a life of accomplishment that
ensured he was an excellent provider for his family. He gave back to his community by serving
on the boards of organizations such as the American Cancer Society, foster care review board,
school boards, Rotary, and government and collegial healthcare initiatives.
Ray was known for his sense of humor, personal charm, and warm generosity. He had strong
bonds, backed by faith, with family, friends, and community. Ray was a dedicated genealogist, a
sportsman, and a raconteur who entertained all with his stories and treasured memories.
Ray is survived by his wife, Sally, children Erik, Cara Miller, Kate Cornella, Erin Petrocelli,
grandchildren Hailee, Morgan, Madison (Honaker), Aspen Gilligan, Lily Kornacki, Harley
Miller, Cohnnor Marchbanks, Fiona, Keara, Delaney, Forrest, Michael, Asha, Dinah, Delilah
(Cornella), Henry and William (Petrocelli), great-grandchildren Shanell, Thiago (Reyes), Taylen,
Skylar, and Teontae (Jackson), siblings Lynette Brown and John Bustard, and beloved nieces and
nephews who will forever hold his memory in their hearts. He is reunited in heaven with his
parents, Avis and Charles, siblings, John Wayne, David (Honaker), and Carol Gibson, and
grandchildren, Ryannan Dorman and Asher Cornella.
A viewing will be held at Holt Funeral Home in Canon City, Colorado, on Sunday, December 29
from 4 to 6 pm. The funeral will be at St. Benedict’s Church in Florence, Colorado, on Monday,
December 30 at 10 am. A graveside service will be held immediately after at Lakeside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Loaves and Fishes in his honor.
Rest in peace, Ray. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.

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