Robert Joseph Raley, Sr.

The country lost another member of the Greatest Generation with the passing of ROBERT J. RALEY, SR. (BOB), 92, of Little Rock, also known as Pepaw to all of us that loved him. He is now sharing the company of his Savior with his devoted and loving wife of 66 years, Carolyn, who passed away earlier this year. He was also predeceased by his five brothers and three sisters. Leaving to cherish his memory are his five daughters and three sons: Anne Tyler (Bob) of Little Rock, Mary Straub (Phil) of Kansas City, Mo., Joe Raley (Missy) of Springdale, Jane Oberste (Paul) of Little Rock, John Raley (Susan) of Plano, Texas, Sharon Bridges (Mike) of Maumelle, Patricia Lashley of Little Rock, Walter Raley (Lisa) of New Haven, Ind.; 20 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Though dementia robbed Pepaw of what occurred in the recent past, he could recount in detail every mission he flew as a Naval Aviator in World War II, piloting the SB2C Helldriver off the USS Ticonderoga. He was featured on a front page article in the Arkansas Democrat on July 19, 1945 for his escape out of the bowels of the Ticonderoga after it was attacked by Kamikaze pilots. For his service in the war, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for single handedly sinking an enemy destroyer. He was also awarded the Air Service Medal. He was honorably discharged as Lieutenant Commander. Pepaw was happiest when surrounded by his sizable family. We will always remember fondly the weekly Sunday family gatherings and swimming parties at the Raley home on Kanis Rd. Rest in Peace, Pepaw, until we meet again. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 29 at Christ the King Catholic Church with Reverend Thomas Keller officiating. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, Dec. 28 starting at 6 p.m. Rosary service will follow starting at 7 p.m. at the Funeral Home. The family would like to thank the staff at Pleasant Valley Living Center for all their love and care that was given to our Dad. Memorials may be made to Christ the King Catholic Church, 4000 N. Rodney Parham Rd, Little Rock, Ark. 72212. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Mr. Raley's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.