Ray Atwood Credit: Courtesy

Ray Atwood, 83, of Umatilla, Fla., (formerly of Bolton, Vt.) passed away on February 18, 2025. Born on April 3, 1941, in New York City, Ray lived a life of adventure, dedication and service.

Ray proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a weapons mechanic, receiving an honorable discharge. His passion for automobiles led him to own and operate Ray’s Auto Body from 1977 to 2017. A dedicated member of his community, he was named Citizen of the Year in Bolton in 2004 and actively participated in the Chittenden County Fish & Wildlife Club and the Vermont 1st Wildlife Club. He was also a volunteer firefighter and served on the Bolton Selectboard and the Regional Planning Commission for Chittenden County, Vt.

Ray had many passions, including riding motorcycles — especially dirt bikes — sailing from Burlington, Vt., to the Florida Keys, building model cars and flying model airplanes. He cherished time with his family and was known for his adventurous spirit, generosity and unwavering loyalty. He loved the Green Mountain State of Vermont and later enjoyed his retirement in Umatilla, Fla.

His beloved wife of nearly 65 years, Patricia Atwood, passed away on August 28, 2026. He is survived by his children, Corine Nicholson of Umatilla, Fla., Mark Atwood (Tina) of Roebuck, S.C., Stephen Atwood of Patchogue, N.Y., and Kristie Maddox of Greenbelt, Md.; as well as 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Atwood; father, Walter Atwood; and sister, Jeanne Schwiecke. He is also reunited with his longtime close friend John Sheehan.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, 12:30 p.m., at the Green Mountain Cemetery in Montpelier, VT. A luncheon will follow.

Ray will be remembered for his adventurous heart, his willingness to help others, and the lasting impact he had on his family, friends and community.