of Little Rock, AR
January 6, 1940 - December 13, 2020
Raymond Lewis Shoptaw, age 80, of Little Rock, Arkansas, went home to be with His Lord and Savior on Sunday, December 13, 2020, at Baptist Health Center. He is predeceased by his parents, Bessie Morton and Len Shoptaw, and his wife of 48 years, Bette Elaine Townley Shoptaw.
Raymond attended Garland Elementary School, West Side Junior High School, and graduated from Little Rock Central High School in 1958. He learned to love baseball as the bat boy for his dad's church's softball team. He played baseball through American Legion and college and looked forward each year to the reunion of the friends he played with at Lamar Porter Field. He spent tireless hours in the backyard playing catch and ''pepper'' with his son, Britt, as well as coaching youth sports and American Legion. He played basketball at Little Rock Central and credited his coach, Lawrence Mobley, with teaching him more than the game of basketball.
When he was fourteen years old, his uncle introduced him to the sport of duck hunting which he continued to enjoy but never on Sunday. He had a passion and love for duck hunting with his uncle Jimmy Morton and good friend John Owens. They always kept secret their beloved ''Honey Hole.''
He graduated from Henderson State College and began his career in the management training program with JCPenney. He served as Assistant Director of The Arkansas Lighthouse for the Blind and Assistant Director for the Division of Rehabilitative Service at the Benton State Hospital.
He spent twenty-eight years with Arkansas Enterprises for the Developmentally Disabled (AEDD) where he used his talents to grow the small nonprofit that served about fifty adults with developmental disabilities into a statewide organization providing diverse services to well over five hundred children and adults with developmental disabilities. He retired in 2009 as CEO. He approached his work at AEDD with the mindset of ''Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me.'' Matthew 25:40.
He was a member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He was devoted to God's Word and included a Scripture in any card he sent. He spent many Monday evenings with his good friend Larry Mathews visiting members of their Sunday school department and seeking to build the kingdom of God. He was a great Christian leader who was devoted to instilling hard work, sound values, and the love of the Lord as a father and poppa to his children and grandchildren. As a husband, he was devoted to his late wife, Elaine, by giving great love and joy in caring for her. The Lord graciously placed in his life for the past eight years his wife, Peggy, as they continued to celebrate and love life to its fullest together. Their happiest times were when they had their families together enjoying special moments in life.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy Mathews Shoptaw, daughter RaeLynn Shoptaw Hogue (Scott) of Bentonville, Arkansas; son William Britt Shoptaw (Tina) of Aledo, Texas; five granddaughters Kaitlyn Hogue of Conway; Kelsey Hogue Knight (Jake) of Maumelle; and Sydney Shoptaw, Sarah Shoptaw, and Sophie Shoptaw of Aledo, Texas. He is survived by his step-daughter, Kelly Mathews Eldridge (Bill) of Benton; step-grandsons Matthew Eldridge (Rachel) of Sachse, Texas; and Nathan Eldridge of Waco, Texas; his sister, Marilyn Witcher, of Jacksonville, AR; and brother, James Shoptaw, of Little Rock.
Celebration of Life services will be at 11 a.m., Friday, December 18 at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church. The family will receive friends following the service.
Memorials may be made to Geyer Springs First Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.
Geyer Springs First Baptist Church is complying with the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines and limiting indoor funeral and visitation attendance to 500 people at one time. All attendees must provide and wear their own masks before entering.
Recorded service link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb2DPUordhs
Sign Guestbook
56 Condolence(s)
Eddie Benetz
Tuesday, December 29, 2020
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will miss very much our talks over coffe and sometimes lunch where we would talk about Ducks and my son's High School sports. He was a good friend and i will miss him dearly.
Richards Honda Yamaha
Wednesday, December 23, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
The staff of Richards Honda Yamaha
David Magee
Friday, December 18, 2020
Truly a man of God. He will be missed by many ....
Veronica & Sydney Rancifer
Friday, December 18, 2020
For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains. May the joys you knew and the times you shared help comfort you at this sad time. My continued prayers for the family.
Deana Waldrop
Friday, December 18, 2020
I so appreciated the concern and kindness and care in his service as a deacon to my mother, Willa Grimes. After mom died he kept in touch, especially encouraging my brother, Robbie. The day my husband and I ran into him and his sister, at Smokin Buns, day of encouragement and a family reunion. I am so grateful that I had the honor to meet this caring man. May God so wrap us all in His loving arms as we grieve Raymond ' s death .Let's trully believe Raymond is present with Lord Jesus Christ as Paul says to die is to gain eternal life, but I chose life here now, we are to choose life and run the race set before us in Christ Jesus, celebrating that we were honored to have the privilege of knowing Raymond and will see him again.
Ron & Paula Hunter
Friday, December 18, 2020
Raymond was a friend who always considered the welfare of others. We were proud to know him. Peggy, we can't imagine the depth of your heartache, but please know you are lifted up in our prayers.
Joe and Bonnie Magness
Friday, December 18, 2020
Raymond was a great man who was loved by many
James Rounsavall
Friday, December 18, 2020
My deepest sympathy, condolences and appreciation for the opportunity to make Raymond's acquaintance through this wonderful family. Blessed be the Lord, and take comfort knowing his Peace and Grace wrap us in love and the knowledge of salvation through Christ.
Thank you for GSBC and the online opportunity to view the service.
Wayne and NAncy Smith
Friday, December 18, 2020
Praying for you
Bj Welch
Friday, December 18, 2020
We love you and are praying for you and all loved ones so very much, my dear Christlike mentor in the faith.
Reginald Johnson
Friday, December 18, 2020
My sincere condolences to The Family of Raymond Shoptaw . On behalf of myself and the AEDD family our prayers are with you in this time of loss. Raymond brought joy to so many people and he will truly be missed .
Patricia A Galloway
Friday, December 18, 2020
Peggy praying for you. May God give comfort and grace at this time. I
Chris Minick
Friday, December 18, 2020
Raymond was really a good man. I always had a lot of respect for him and the way he lived his life. He was an exceptional husband, father, and friend.
Suzanne Schutter
Friday, December 18, 2020
So sorry for your loss. I know this is a very hard time for all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
Shelly Yoelding
Friday, December 18, 2020
Such a wonderful person to so many. I cherish the many years that we worked in the same field. Raymond will greatly missed. Sending his family prayers for peace and comfort.
Jerry Bain
Thursday, December 17, 2020
Peggy and Rae Lynn, I was so sorry to hear about Raymond. Peggy you both had such a sweet story and a special love. Rae Lynn, I know loosing your dad is very painful. I pray for all of you. Love you all, Jerry
John Langston
Thursday, December 17, 2020
RIP to my childhood friend.
Zelda Hoaglan
Thursday, December 17, 2020
We at Jenkins and I, personally, loved Raymond and will miss him but will remember him with great appreciation.
Art Pearrow
Thursday, December 17, 2020
It was with a heavy heart that I read about Raymond passing. I knew him as my friend at South Highland Baptist Church, West Side Jr. High, and LRCHS. My prayers are with his family at this time.
Michael and Nancy Hilliard
Thursday, December 17, 2020
A good friend since the 60's, and a fine Christian Gentleman. Raymond will be missed by many people who knew him. Rest in Peace Old Friend.
Rob McAuley
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Prayers for the family! Coach Shoptaw was a great man and coach. He helped develop many young men that he came in contact with over the years. Gone but not forgotten.
Janie Cole
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Dearest Peggy,
You and Raymond are one of my all time favorite stories! I bless the Lord for both of the families He gave each of you! You both have incredible legacies... all glory be to God! Casey and I will be praying for you and all of the family! Love you so very much!!!
Janie Cole
Cindy Malik
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Prayers for the family. Glad to see this man of faith left wonderful memories for so many.
Virgil Sinkey
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
I'm so sorry to hear of Raymond's passing. I was looking forward to our duck hunt that we were planning.
He is with the Lord Jesus now, which is better than any duck hunt we could have ever planned!
May God bless Raymond's family and friends. I know that he will be missed by all that knew him.
Kay and Ed Hicks
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Peggy, As you know, Raymond was a man of God and had great integrity. We are praying for all of you as you mourn his passing. We were privileged to know him. You and your family are all treasures. Kay and Ed Hicks
Leslie Zettwoch
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Love y’all so much. Raymond will truly be missed. He was such an amazing man and I know his life touched so many. We will be watching the service from St Louis.
Donna Harrison
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
My heart is broken for Peggy. -RaeLynn, Britt and all the family! I lost my precious husband on Sept 4th of this year so I understand so well how hard and sad it is. Raymond and Peggy were so kind to us as newcomers to Geyer Springs and after Lawrence passed away. I will always remember what a kind and gracious man Raymond was. All of you are in my prayers!!
Jennifer Lane
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Ms. Peggy, I love you. I am so sorry. I am praying for you and your family. I know you found such joy with Raymond. Please hold tight to your family and the Lord and knowing you will see him again.
Love Jennifer, Matt and boys
Dorothy Dodson
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
So sorry to hear of Raymond's passing. I worked with him at AEDD and he was always such a kind and caring person. RIP Raymond.
Mason and Elianne Gray
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
I am so sorry to hear of Raymond's passing. I am certain that when he was called home. He said it is I your faithful servant. And God spoke. Welcome home.
dennis fletcher
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
so sorry to hear britt. hang in there like i know you will. wishing you and the family well
Betty Scott
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Peggy, Scott and Raelynn I am still praying for you and Know that we will See see him again one Day! He was a wonderful Christian Man and I know he will be missed but that he is with our Lord and savior. God Bless you All.
Leslie and Jay Porter
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Mr. Shoptaw welcomed me and Jay to Crestdale Lane over 25 years ago with love and food! Mr. Shoptaw would always ask what sport our boys were playing (slightly disappointed that it was not baseball) and gave the duck report to Jay! Mr and Mrs Shoptaw were more than just across the street neighbors, they were our friends. Even after they moved, I would catch him and Peggy driving by the old house “just to check on itâ€. He was a true man of God. May he Rest In Peace.
Gary Evans
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
To all of my cousin Raymond's family and friends - I am very sorry for the sad loss of this good man. Unfortunately, the last time I saw Raymond was 20 years ago at my mother's funeral in the year 2000. Coincidently my mother also died on December 13. And coincidently my parents, James and Elsie Shoptaw Evans are buried side by side with Raymond's parents, Len and Bessie, at Pinecrest cemetery.
You all are in my thoughts during this most difficult time. Gary Evans
Sue Pittman
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Keeping all of you in my prayers.
Donny Drennan
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
RaeLynn, and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. I met this kind man in high school and he made a lasting impression on me with his humble and kind yet confident demeanor. I know he was proud of you RaeLynn and Scott of the great marriage you have and parents you are. I know from experience that with time and Gods Grace life will get great again and you will experience joy again. Prayers and thought of peace and understanding to you and yours.
Amy & Greg Cobble
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
What an amazing life and legacy. I know he’ll be missed by all those who loved him dearly. Amazing reunions have occurred and more to look forward to!
Rowdy and Carrie Ross
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Scott and RaeLynn,
We are so sorry for your loss. We love you guys and we will be praying for you and your family.
Keith & Sue Caddy
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Peggy our hearts are filled with sorrow at the loss of Raymond.. our prayers are continuing for you and the family. We pray for God’s arms to hold you tight and feel his love and comfort.. love you Peggy!
Gary and Linda Cope
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Peggy Linda and I heart breaks for you in your loss but we also take comfort in knowing how you are such a strong Christian lady who walks with the Lord by your side everyday . I have told Aunt Edna we are willing to do anything anytime for you two as we have plenty of time on our hands. I knew your parents and you two were blessed to have such wonderful loving parents.
Art and Belinda Stricklin
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss, but rejoice in knowing you will all meet again in heaven. We always enjoyed talking with Raymond, whether at Baylor games (he was a good sport!) or at family celebrations like Matthew’s wedding or college graduations. He will be greatly missed.
Vicki Miller
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
We're praying for peace and comfort for the family and we're so thankful we will see Raymond again one day. Love to you, Peggy.
Judy Kittler
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
To Peggy and family,
Ben and I appreciate the opportunity we had to spend time with Raymond, Never heard a discouraging word and he was such a joy to be around
raymond kerr
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Peggy my sincere condolences for the loss of your husband Raymond. I'm glad that Diane and me had the honor to meet him and to visit with you at the South Highland Baptist Church Reunion a few years ago. Our prayers go out to you and your family during this time.
Gary Puckett
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
R.I.P. Mighty Duck Hunter & Great Friend! You will be missed down here at camp. I had no idea that when you came over on that Friday night before Deer Season for Dinner, it would be the last time we saw you. You memories will live on with me, Mike Shaw & Tim Dupuy for the rest of our lives, and we will miss you. Our Prayers for your entire family, and for Ms Peggy for sure.
Cecile Shoptaw
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
My Cousin Raymond was two years older than me and we grew up together at our Mamaw’s house on Geyer Springs Road. We had huge family gatherings in which we shared our love for each other. As we got older, we grew more distant but we knew we still loved each other. I will miss him and his good work will live on. â¤ï¸
The Rector Family
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Peggy:
Our hearts are heavy, and we are praying for you, the family and for Raymond's journey into eternal life. It is our desire to be there in person so that we all could give you a big hug, sit down, and visit. That time is not now, but will come soon. Know that we are all praying for you. You both were such great neighbors, and we cherish all the firsts with our children that you both so generously participated in while helping Grace and I raise the children. Love, Fred, Grace, Madeleine and George.
Lynda Qualls
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Family,
Psalm 22:26
The LORD knows the days of the upright,
And their inheritance shall be forever.
Raymond’s life reflects an “upright “ man. He was a good friend I will miss.
I extend my sympathy to each of you as you feel such a great loss
Kathy McCormick
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Dearly loved Peggy and Raymond! It was such fun to watch their relationship blossom through the Lord. Raymond was such a kind, caring, compassionate and loving servant of our LORD. He could have given lessons to any couple on how to cherish and respect each other.
Raymond will be missed so terribly much. Prayers for Peggy and their families in cherishing the memories they have to treasure.
Kathy McCormick
Karrie Cochran
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying that your family will have comfort in this difficult time. Know that you are in our prayers!
marilyn witcher
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
I will always love you my big Brother. I'll see you later in Heaven Love and miss you Marilyn
Joanne Sullivan
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Peggy, I am so sorry to know of Raymond's passing but so glad the two of you had eight years of love and happiness. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I will see you on Friday.
Ted and Mary Stanton
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Peggy, we are praying for you and for the entire family during these difficult days. How we loved being with you and Raymond on various occasions! Such good memories! We praise the Lord for our friendship with Raymond and you, and we thank God for the way both you and Raymond followed the Lord through all these years. May God grant the entire family His richest blessings, comfort, and the "peace that passes all understanding" that is found only in our Lord. We love you!
Robert Murray
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Though I have never met Raymond personally. I've have heard Scott, Gail, Logan and Carson talk of Raymond and wish I had the opportunity to have met Raymond. So sorry for your loss thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Fleming
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
I am so very sorry. Mr. Shoptaw was a great man.
Tammy Brantley
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
The loss of Mr. Raymond is just heart breaking. I am continuing to pray for Mrs. Peggy, along with ALL of his beloved family. I will so miss seeing and visiting with him at church and so many other events where our lives intersected. What a wonderful, Christian legacy he has left not only in the lives of his children and grandchildren, but all of us who had the privilege to know him.