Raymond James Cameron, of Salem, SC and formerly Oneonta, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 19, 2017.


Ray was born on January 16, 1947, the son of Beverly O'Kelly Thomson, who survives.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Ethel; son, Richard (Diane) and daughter, Beverly (Edwin) Murch; brothers, Dave (Linda), Jon Alan (Candy), Richard, Brian (Judy), Robert (Gina) and sister, Liz.

He loved his family, proud Gramp to grandchildren, Crystal, Brandon (Jessica), Jessie, Jarod, Bubby, Connor (Lea) and Taylor (Marissa) and Pop to great-grandchildren, Ashlee, Isaiah, Zach, Sean, Emma, Hannah, Alayna, Hayden and Connor.

Ray's greatest passion was music. He played a double-neck guitar professionally for 30 years and sang in the bands 69th Amendment, Broad Street and Double Exposure. For several years, he has written instrumentals which are playing in Asia.

Ray was predeceased by his father, Richard Thomson, brother Howard, niece Carrie Wahl and childhood friend Kenny Anderson.

IN LIEU of flowers, contributions can be sent to Beverly Murch, 112 Strong Crossing Road, Laurens, New York 13796 for the Raymond James Music Award that will be given annually for a deserving student involved in music.

At Ray's request, there will be no services. All friends and family are invited to celebrate his life on June 4th, from 1-4 at the Laurens American Legion. There will be a military guard salute at 4.