Byron Raymond Peoples, 79, of Pensacola, FL, passed away peacefully at his home last Thursday, October 12, 2023.

Ray was born on June 24, 1944, in Pensacola to Byron Matthew and Lillian Silva Peoples. He grew up in East Pensacola Heights, where he learned his favorite hobbies, tennis and fishing, and developed his love of small dogs. After graduating from Pensacola High School in 1962, Ray received his B.S. in Textile Management from Auburn University in 1966. He immediately signed up with the Air Force due to the Vietnam War, and after completing Officer Training School, married his sweetheart Susan Garner at Heights Baptist Church. Ray was soon stationed in Thailand as a Tactical Weapons Controller, where he was awarded the bronze star for his service.

Following his military service, Ray and Susan relocated to Greenville/Spartanburg S.C. area where Ray landed a job in the textile industry. Here Ray and Susan had two children: Beth and David. Ray's career path led to Michelin Tire Company, where he worked various positions for 17 years, finally retiring in Dothan, AL. He then started his favorite career as a residential appraiser, which allowed him more time to participate in sports practices, piano recitals, and camping trips with his family.

Ray was an avid tennis player his whole life, making loyal friends on the courts wherever he lived, and his friends at Roger Scott will always remember his jokes and stories. He enjoyed saltwater fishing for trout and redfish and was not afraid to break out the mullet net if they were not biting. A Christian, Ray could be found at church every Sunday with his wife Susan, sometimes wearing his Auburn tie poking fun at his friends. He is currently residing in Heaven.

Ray's greatest joys came from being a husband of 55 years, a father, grandfather, and dog owner. To say he will be greatly missed by family and friends would be an understatement.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Byron and Lillian Peoples.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Garner Peoples; daughter, Beth Batts and her children, Caleb, Arabella, and Lydia; son, David Peoples (Emmalee) and their son, Wilder.

Visitation will be held from 10:00am until the Funeral service to begin at 11:00am Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, with Dr. Jerry Passmore officiating. A funeral procession will depart Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel afterwards for burial at Bayview Memorial Park.

Active Pallbearers will be Bubba Blair, Mike Clapsadl, Dan Magaw, Mike Morain, Dick Sloan, and Peter Wilkin.