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Farewell to a Community Icon: William Ray Kilgore Passes Away at 88
With heavy hearts, the Brighton community mourns the passing of William Ray Kilgore, a cherished resident and pillar of the city. At the age of 88, Ray peacefully departed this life on July 24th, leaving an indelible mark on the countless individuals he touched throughout his remarkable journey.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Born in Denver in 1935, Ray was a man of profound integrity and unwavering commitment to his community. His unwavering dedication to service was evident in all aspects of his life, from his honorable service in the United States Naval Air Reserve to his active involvement in a myriad of community organizations.
- United States Naval Air Reserve (1954-1961)
- Boy Scout Leader, Troop 75
- Arbitrator, Better Business Bureau
- Union Steward, Communications Workers of America Union
Ray’s unwavering commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge led him to the Pickens Tech Center in Aurora, where he taught classes on hydraulics and pneumatics and served on the advisory board.
Community Involvement and Accomplishments
Ray’s passion for community service extended far beyond his professional pursuits. In Brighton, where he settled in 1955, he dedicated countless hours to giving back to the city he loved.
- Sitting Member, City of Brighton Board of Adjustment
- Charter Chair Commission Member
- Volunteer Ambulance Driver, Platte Valley Ambulance
Ray’s volunteerism not only served as a source of assistance to those around him but also inspired his children, two of whom followed in his footsteps by pursuing careers in medicine.
Professional Success and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Ray’s professional life was equally marked by hard work, dedication, and a keen entrepreneurial spirit. He spent the majority of his career in the farming and construction supply industry, founding and operating several successful businesses.
- Kilgore Supply Company, Milliken
- Farmers Elevator, Brush
- Colorado Tool Center, Englewood
Ray’s meticulous accounting and inventory systems played a pivotal role in the profitability and organization of his businesses. Later in his career, he worked with United Power, serving on their Board of Directors for fifteen years and as President of their USA subsidiary branch.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements as a global business leader, Ray was honored by Who’s Who Worldwide in 1993.
A Legacy of Love and Laughter
Beyond his professional and community accomplishments, Ray was a devoted family man and a cherished friend. He and his beloved wife Colleen shared over six decades of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.
Ray’s quick wit, ornery character, and infectious laughter endeared him to all who knew him. He formed a close-knit group of “coffee club” friends who remained connected throughout his life.
Ray’s love extended beyond humans to animals, as he and Colleen adopted numerous cats and dogs over the years.
An Irreplaceable Loss
William Ray Kilgore’s passing has left an immeasurable void in the Brighton community. He will be deeply missed by his family, including his wife Colleen, brother Jerry, sons Michael and Randy, daughter Julie, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Services will be held on Friday, August 2nd, at 3pm at the Presbyterian Church in Brighton.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Boy Scouts of America or to the Platte Valley Ambulance Service in Ray’s memory.
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