Lewis Ray Hampton, 73. of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at his residence. A native of Palatka, he was born on Monday April 24,1950 to Leroy Sr., and Ethel Lee (Williams) Hampton. Lewis was a valedictorian graduate of Central Academy High School and subsequently was employed by City of Palatka Public Works. On August 19,1969 he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a military police officer earning an honorable discharge on February 22, 1972.

Affectionately known as "Ray," he was an amazing father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed fellowshipping with friends. His hobbies included reading the Bible, watching westerns and sports including his beloved Miami Dolphins. He was of the Baptist faith. Ray resided most of his life living with his sister Rosa and her children where he devotedly took on the role as a father figure. Ray subsequently assuming the role as a caregiver assisting his sister Rosa with her activities of daily living which he took most pride in.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in eternal rest by brothers, Leroy Hampton Jr., Donald Hampton; sisters, Minnie Mims, Latricia Lowe; brothers-in-law, Bobby Vickers, Jimmy Lowe, Louis Mims; sisters-in-law, Barbara Hampton, Yun-Ja Kim Hampton.

He leaves to cherish his memories: son, Raymond Hampton, Palatka; 2 brothers Herbert Hampton, Crystal River; John Henry Hampton, Hinesville, GA: 2 sisters Emma Bown, Springfield, MO; Rosa Vickers, Apopka; like a son; Terrence (Norma) Vickers, Palatka; Bobby (Kindie) Vickers, Oviedo; like daughters, SaLaundra Vickers, Apopka; Apifanie (Chantonio) Mitchell, Altamonte Springs; like brothers, Warren Fells, William Fells, both of Palatka; special friends; Jerry Bradshaw, Palatka; James Hill, Palatka; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Visitation of family & friends will be 1-3 p.m. with Celebration of Life commencing at 3 p.m., Saturday, April 13 at "Flagg's Chapel of Serenity." Reverend Karl N. Flagg, Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, is the eulogist. Interment will follow in Oak Hill West Cemetery.