There are condolences waiting approval on Vivian 's Tribute wall
Celebrating the life of Vivian D. Ray
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
Vivian .
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for Vivian D. Ray
A Graveside Service for Vivian's life will occur on
Vivian Derricotte Ray, affectionately known as "Auntie Viv" was born to the late Walter Derricotte, Sr. and Hellen Lee Butler in Philadelphia, PA. While she was the older of two children from this union, having a younger brother, Walter Derricotte, Jr. (deceased), she was also blessed with another brother, James F. Butler, Jr. (deceased), both of whom she loved dearly.
Vivian was educated in the School District of Philadelphia and graduated from the Philadelphia High School for Girls. After high school, she matriculated at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, formerly known as Cheyney State College. She graduated from Cheyney State College with a degree in Elementary Education in 1953. After graduating from college, she began her teaching career at Martha Washington Elementary School in Philadelphia, PA. It was here that she developed lifelong friendships with some of her colleagues. Always striving for more, she continued her thirst for knowledge by obtaining masters and doctorate degrees from Temple University. Commensurate with her additional degrees, she was promoted to the positions of Special Education Director and School Psychologist for the Philadelphia School District.
Vivian met the love of her life, Artis Ray. They married on April 20, 1958 and were inseparable. They were married for sixty-two years before he preceded her in death on April 21, 2020.
Prior to graduating from Cheyney University, she was initiated into the Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. on June 14, 1952. This was just the beginning of her love for her sisterhood. After graduating, she became a dedicated member of the Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She recently achieved the status of "Pearl Soror" denoting more than 65 years of service within the sorority. She was also committed to community service through her active involvement with the Philadelphia Chapter of Chums, Incorporated, of which she was a charter member. She was also a member of the Coordinating Council of Frontiers International Philadelphia Club, in addition to two Red Hatters Clubs.
Vivian also loved games, if it involved cards, the better, which ultimately lead her to becoming an avid duplicate bridge player. She was a member of the American Bridge Association, the Cosmopolitan Bridge Club, the Philadelphia Bridge Unit, and the IMPS Club. She also looked forward to the monthly outings for some challenging games of Tripoley.
Aunt Viv will be fondly remembered for her haute couture, wisdom/intelligence, encouragement, work ethic and as an animal lover, especially dogs. Her consistent love, thoughtfulness and tremendous generosity, especially during birthdays, Christmas, and other special occasions will never be forgotten.
We are deeply saddened by her departure; however, we celebrate her strength, tenacity and guidance. She leaves to cherish her memory, nephews-Walter "Butch" Derricotte, Glenn (Rosalind) Derricotte, Mark Derricotte, Barry (Olga) Derricotte, James F. (Adrianne) Butler, III, niece Kia D. (Kevin) Buckner, niece-in-law Nilda Derricotte, a very special "nephew" Everett Jones, a very special "niece" Gloria Toxey Jones, a very dear friend, Gwen Henderson, four sisters-in-law, Louise Watkins, Louetta Ray Hadley, Olga Ray Baylor, Vivian H. Butler, and a host of other relatives and friends.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With profound gratitude, the family of the late Vivian Derricotte Ray extends deep appreciation for the many expressions of love, compassion and sympathy which have been extended to us during this difficult time of bereavement. God gives us healing for our pain, comfort for our grief and loving family and friends who care. Now humbly and sincerely, we will always pray that God's richest blessings will come your way.
