It is with great sadness that we share the passing of long-time turfgrass producer and Virginia Turfgrass Foundation supporter, Ray Weekley.
William Raymond (Ray) Weekley, February 18, 1931 - December 22, 2021
Ray Weekley, of Fairfax, Virginia, passed away unexpectedly due to a massive stroke on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at Reston Hospital Center surrounded by family. He was 90 years old.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Louis and Beaulah Odessa (Desi) Weekley; his sister, Barbara Carey, his brother, Kenneth Weekley, niece Charlotte Carey, and other relatives and dear friends.
He is survived by his ex-wife, Beverly Weekley with whom he remained close, son, Mark Weekley, daughters Audrey (Andy) Hutchison, Arlene (Mike) Heberle, Laura (Bill) Burbridge and 6 grandchildren, Ashley Weekley, Taylor and Jake Heberle, Madeline, Allison and Elizabeth Burbridge: sisters, Audrey Baldwin and Elaine Williams both of Pensacola, Florida and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins who always welcomed him back home on his many visits.
In the late 1960s, Ray became a sod farmer. With the help of his family, he worked hard to build a successful business, Chantilly Turf Farms, Inc. which is still serving the Northern Virginia area.
Ray Weekley was an active member of the Turf Producers International (TPI) organization since it began. He served on the board of TPI and was a longtime state representative to TPI. He traveled internationally with them for many years making friends all over the world teaching and learning new ideas for turf production. He loved recounting his many adventures.
Ray was an active member of the Virginia Sod Growers, Inc. and the Virginia Turfgrass Council, receiving many awards from his peers. He received:
Virginia Turfgrass Council - President’s Award - 2019
Virginia Turfgrass Council -RD Cake / Silver Tray Memorial- 1 999 and 2006
Virginia Turfgrass Council - Lifetime Member Award
Virginia Sod Growers, Inc.- Honorary Lifetime Membership
And held Numerous Offices in the Virginia Sod Growers over his career
Ray was a lifelong learner and always encouraged his family to have a thirst for knowledge. He supported his children and grandchildren throughout their education. His legacy will live on through them, may they go forth and do good in the world.
Ray enjoyed his Sunday mornings at Arcola United Methodist Church. The family wishes to thank Pastor Chris Riedel for his visits to the hospital to comfort Ray and the family. They are especially appreciative of the many occasions Ray was invited to Glory Days for lunch and the reassurance that Pastor Riedel was always looking out for him.
The family is also very thankful for the heartfelt condolences they have received from friends and family.
There will be a celebration of Ray’s life later in the spring when the weather is warm, and the grass is green and growing.
The family asks that you consider a memorial donation either to Arcola Methodist Church, 2457 Arcola Mills Drive, Dulles, VA 20166 or to the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation, PO Box 2062, Williamsburg, VA 23187
Pictured right to left: Ray Weekley, Dr. Mike Goatley, Mark Weekley
We will always remember your passion, generosity and bright smile in the turfgrass world! Thank You
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