On the evening of Tuesday, April 26, 2011, Captain W. Ray Medlin, USN (Retired) passed away in the company of his wife of 55 years, Betty Jean Medlin, at his home in Charleston, South Carolina. Ray was born on December 12, 1928, in Great Falls, SC to Milas P. Medlin, Sr. and Rhettie Love Medlin. After attending Great Falls High School, he graduated from the Citadel in 1950. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and trained sharpshooters. Upon completion of his education at the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1955, Ray was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy. After serving 25 years in the Navy, he retired in 1986. While in the Navy he was the recipient of the Navy Commendation Medal, Legion of Merit, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars and various individual and unit citations and awards. Throughout his 82 years, Ray taught us to be honest in all things, be kind to everyone and to think for ourselves. He is survived by his wife, Betty, a brother Wayne, a son W. Eric Medlin (Kathy); daughters Laura Thomas (Ted) and Melissa Gavin (Keith); grandchildren Brandi Medlin Rutledge (Middleton), Matthew and Michael Medlin, Christopher and Jason Gavin, Soter and Alexandra Thomas, Sydney Solt; great-granddaughter Grace Rhetta Rutledge. Captain Medlin’s ashes will be inurned during a private ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Visit our guestbook at www.postandcourier.com/ deaths. Tags: 1950
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