Dr. Harvey Lou Rayson passed away Monday, June 21, 2010, in Longview, Texas. Memorial services will be 1 p.m., Saturday, June 26, 2010, at Red Oak Baptist Church in Longview.

Harvey Lou Rayson was born in Beckville, Texas, on June 16, 1947, to Henry Lou Rayson and Velma Hubbard Rayson. He professed Christ at an early age and joined the Chapel Springs Baptist Church in Beckville, Texas.

Dr. Harvey Rayson graduated valedictorian of Sunset High School in Beckville, Texas. He received his Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Dr. Rayson worked in the public school system for over 30 years serving as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent. He also worked in higher education for several years. He was very active in many educational endeavors including, but not limited to grant writings, mentoring, encouraging and financial support. Through his efforts, he paved a brighter path for others to follow. In addition, Dr. Rayson had a profound effect on several communities through his civil rights and organizational involvements.

In 1968, he married Claudette Hale of Marshall, Texas. To this union, three sons were born; Chris, Nicholas and Kyle. He united with the Snow Hill Baptist Church where he was ordained as a Deacon, served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, and was the Sunday school teacher. During his tenure at Snow Hill, he served in many other leadership capacities.

His father, Henry L. Rayson preceded him in death; as well as two brothers, Travis L. Rayson and Jerry D. Rayson; two sons, Nicholas and Kyle Lamar also preceded him in death.

He leaves to cherish his memory a son, Chris Rayson (Misty); and two grandchildren, Raven and Hunter of Rockwall, Texas; his loving mother, Velma Rayson of Longview, Texas; two sisters, Velma Louise Phillips of Beckville, Texas, and Shirley Colton (Julius) of Longview, Texas; and a very special fiancé , Sharon Richardson of Pittsburg, Texas, who was by his side until his demise; an uncle, Johnny Rayson of Banning, California; and an aunt, Estelle Hines of Carthage; many nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.