Raymond T. “Buddy” Jones, 62, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 28, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family members at his home in Monte Rio, California.

Ray was passionate about serving his community and helping others. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force and was a volunteer firefighter for Clearlake Oaks Fire Department. He worked 30-plus years at the U.S. Post Office.

Family and friends can attest to Ray’s amazing culinary ability and willingness to share that talent with others. We enjoyed his cooking at many family gatherings and social events. He often donated his time and skill at Clearlake Keys Club and Fire Department events. His favorite food was seafood, and he loved nothing more than devouring a big plate of oysters or crab while surrounded by family and friends.

He was a loving and caring father to all his children and grandchildren. Many called him “dad,” regardless of blood. He always had a way of making his kids feel welcome and loved. He was forever selfless in providing for those he loved.

Ray enjoyed a variety of activities and hobbies. He was an avid SF Giants fan, travel enthusiast, and game/gambling aficionado. He attended many Giants games while in one of his favorite cities, San Francisco. Ray and his wife loved to travel and gained a lifetime of memories and adventures in some of the most beautiful places on earth. You’d be hard-pressed to find a game that Ray couldn’t beat you at. Dice and card games were a particular favorite of his.

We will miss Ray’s dry wit, humor, and ability to always be “right.” Even while bedridden, Ray was still giving cooking advice and tips, usually unsolicited, to his wife. He is now looking down on us, thinking of better ways we could do this or that. As time goes on, we recognize more and more how often you were right, Ray.

He is survived by his wife, Danelle Jones; his parents, Bud (Nancy) Jones; mother-in-law Jan Garner; sisters Elizabeth Peat, Tina (Brian) Herman, and Robin (Bob) Riggs; children, Jennifer Waine, Kelly Weiper, Sam Dutton, Jeff Jones, and Kacie Weiper; grandchildren, Kelci, Kaydon, Jaelynn, and Lilah; and great grandchild Johnny.

Memorial to be announced. In remembrance of Ray’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to hospice.