Raymond Aldewin Jemison, 96
March 17, 1930 – September 27, 2026
Mr. Raymond Aldewin Jemison, age 96, departed this earthly life and entered his Heavenly Home on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at his residence in Benton County, surrounded by those he loved.
A funeral service honoring Mr. Jemison’s life will be held at 11 AM Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Canaan Baptist Church in Benton County. Visitation will begin at 10:30 AM and continue until the time of service. Bro. Paul Adams and Rev. Archer will officiate, and burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Born March 17, 1930, in Houlka, Mississippi, Mr. Jemison was the son of the late Robert Aldewin and Myrtle Franklin Jemison. After graduating from Houlka High School, he joined the United States Navy at the age of 18. During his service, he was stationed in Florida, where one of his duties was delivering mail. He was discharged in May 1950.
Mr. Jemison was a man who believed in an honest day’s work. In his younger years, he worked in shipyards, but he devoted most of his career to his work as a hot welder and steamfitter with Local Union 614. A life member of the union for 52 years, he traveled to many places for work and took pride in providing for the family he loved so dearly. He also helped his beloved wife, Gerry, own and operate Cypress Creek Game Bird Farm, where the two worked together raising quail.
Even away from the job, Mr. Jemison liked to stay busy. He enjoyed helping Gerry at the farm and, in later years, traveling several times a year to listen to bluegrass music. Some of his happiest moments were spent with family, whether at a game night at church or gathered around the kitchen table playing Spinners or dominoes. He treasured the time they shared and the memories they made together.
Mr. Jemison will be remembered for his strong work ethic, outgoing personality, and the friendly way he greeted others. His family will miss him deeply, but they find comfort in knowing he is forever healed and resting in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ.
Those left to cherish his memory include three daughters, Rita Ann Jemison Davis (Joe II), Joyce Marie Jemison St. John, and Patti Sue Jemison Hall (Perry); two sons, Robert Ray Jemison (Lynda) and Jimmy Rex Jemison (Dorothy); one sister, Mary Elizabeth Perry; 13 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Jemison was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 75 years, Mrs. Rita Geraldine “Gerry” Jemison; one granddaughter; and one great-grandchild.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Spring Valley Hospice of Tupelo, especially Sonya, Erin, Charlotte, C C, Meagan, and chaplain Rev. Archer. Their love and devoted care for Mr. Jemison will never be forgotten.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers will be Mark Fisher, Joseph Davis III, Steven Davis, Keith Jemison, Casey Jemison, Kaleb Jemison, and Rodney Webb. Philip Mercer will serve as honorary pallbearer.
Ripley Funeral Home is honored to serve Mr. Jemison’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Tuesday
September 29, 2026
10:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Canaan Baptist Church
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Funeral Service
Tuesday
September 29, 2026
11:00 AM
Canaan Baptist Church
