1931 – 2016

OXFORD — On Tuesday, Feb. 23, Raymond Irvin Colby, at the age of 84, left this life for a better place. He now walks with no pain, hears and sees clearly, carrying a fishing pole and rifle, enjoying nature around himself as he once did.

Left to share stories, winks and to reminisce are wife, Marilyn; children, Diane (Don), Alice (Bruce), Edgar Scot (Tina), Colleen (Matt) and Walter (Pammy Jean). Treasures of his long life are grandchildren, Kristina (Kris), Kelsey (Josh), Carol (Richard), Nick (Alma), Ashley (Kyle), Joshua (Jasmine), Allyssa (Robbie), Kate, Rachel, Joe (Carrie), and Mariah (Elric); and great-grandchildren, Caleb, McKenna, Ryder, Autumn, Cameron, Adrianna, Karleigh, Greydin, Ryck, Matilynn, Nicholas and Noah. Two sisters, Janice and Verna, are left behind to keep the secrets of his youth.

Loved ones who went before Raymond, to help build a camp in the woods overlooking a peaceful field of grazing deer, were parents, Edgar and Marguerite Colby; brother, Floyd; brother-in-law, Edwin; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. They wait there, for others to join them in the future.

Raymond was a hard worker, learned by doing in 4-H, and lived most of his life farming and logging in the Oxford Hills area, as well as revising tax maps throughout New England. He was involved in numerous activities and organizations throughout his life; veteran of the Korean War, oldest member of the Carton Notch Rod & Gun Club, lifetime member NRA and Maine Trappers Association, 50-year member of Oxford Lodge No. 18 and Kora Temple. Past deputy of Oxford County, Oxford County Fair Association, town of Oxford fire chief, and other organizations. He was an American and conservative to the end.

He will be sorely missed by those who loved and understood him.

Raymond made it clear that he was not to have a funeral. He has always wanted to be cremated and have his ashes spread in a special location on Colby Mountain. His family will see to his wishes (at a later date), along with a “cookout” which Raymond also felt would be a good idea. And always remember, There are Three Ways To Do Things: “The Right Way, The Wrong Way, and The Colby Way!”

Condolences can be expressed by visiting www.oxfordhillsfuneralservices.com.