BUCKINGHAM, Oct. 25 – Raymond Arthur Sledge, 82, of Buckingham, went to the Lord at his home surrounded by loving family on Saturday, October 22, 2011. He was born May 26, 1929 in Richmond to the late Frank L. and Annie H. Sledge.

Mr. Sledge graduated from Varina High School with a scholarship in football, but instead enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean War. On his return from the Navy, he settled in Sandston where he pursued his passions of fishing and gardening. He was well known for his ability to create most anything from wood or metal, many times doing volunteer work for local civic organizations.

In later years he and his wife, Jean, retired to Buckingham County, the county of their families for generations and enjoyed family, friends, gardening and home life.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Jean Sledge; five sons and step-sons, Mark Alan Sledge (Shelley) of Seven Pines, James Stinson of Cumberland, William Dale Johnson (Ann) of Charles City, Charles Goode Johnson (Sue) and Roland Johnson all of Richmond; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; sister, Helen Reynolds (Ed) of Powhatan; beloved nieces, Jennifer Crews and Tracy Stinson; and sister-in-law and caregiver, Ann Adams. He was preceded in death by a brother, Frank Earl Sledge and wife, Cecelia H. Sledge.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 26, at 2 p.m. at the chapel of Puckett Funeral Home with interment to follow at Center Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Cumberland. The Reverend April Sledge will be officiating.

Family will receive friends Tuesday, October 25, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Puckett Funeral Home, Farmville, is serving the family. www.puckettfh.com