Oscar Ray Savage

Oscar Ray Savage Oscar Ray Savage, known to family and friends as Ray, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 1, 1933, in Pell City, Alabama to Arthur and Della Savage. Ray lived a simple and fulfilling life, rooted in love and service to his family and country. He was raised in West Virginia and developed a love for airplanes that would shape his future. This passion led him to enlist in the United States Air Force, where he served his country with honor for more than twenty years, achieving the rank of Technical Sergeant. He achieved this enlisted rank which represented the upper tier of midlevel Noncommissioned Officers, primarily serving as highly proficient technical experts in their career fields alongside leadership, supervisory, and mentorship responsibilities. His time in the Air Force was marked by dedication and bravery, particularly during his service on the Early Warning Line in Alaska, a critical mission during the Cold War. Ray’s skills as a master technician were unparalleled, and his love for the B-52 Stratofortress, which he considered "the greatest plane ever built," was a testament to his commitment to excellence. During his military career, Ray earned several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Outstanding Air Force Unit Award. His service took him on missions around the world, and his resilience was never more evident than when he and his crew were briefly held as prisoners of war for 24 hours while engaged in a relief mission to Pakistan—an ordeal he commonly referred to as "a big miscommunication problem”. In 1955, Ray married the love of his life, Virginia "Ginny" Wohnhas, in Wellsburg, West Virginia. Together they built a beautiful life, raising five children and creating a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their marriage spanned sixty-one (61) remarkable years, a true testament to their unwavering devotion to one another. Even after Virginia’s passing, his love for her remained as strong as ever—a love he honored daily by visiting her resting place and wearing his wedding band until his final day. After retiring from the United States Air Force, Ray relocated his family to Prattville, Alabama where he began a second career with Winn-Dixie. He would continue working there for more than 30 years before he retired. Mr. Savage was a simple man who loved his family above all else. He is survived by his loving children, Susan (Bob) Jacksland, Sheila (Marna) Savage, and Stacey Smith, who will carry forward his legacy of love and devotion. He was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren, Jennifer Gordy, Bobby Okamoto and Mackenzie Smith and a great-grandfather to four great-grandchildren. His interests extended beyond his family and career. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed both football and baseball. He especially loved family gatherings and sharing meals with his children. Ray was preceded in death by the love of his life, Ginny; his son, Patrick Savage; and his daughter, Sandy Savage. Their memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them. The Savage Family would like to express heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate care he received from the nurses in the CVICU at Baptist Medical Center South and from Baptist Hospice. Their exceptional care during his final days ensured comfort and dignity. Mr. Savage leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, service, and sacrifice that will continue to inspire all who knew him. As family members and friends say goodbye, they celebrate a life well-lived and honor a man whose memory will live forever in their hearts.

Oscar Ray Savage

February 1, 1933 - June 8, 2026