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Charles Ray DeLong
6/14/2022
Charles Ray DeLong (Ray), 82 of DeLand, FL died unexpectedly on June 14, 2022. Born in Flowery Branch, GA on October 4, 1939. Ray graduated from Chamblee High School in 1957. In 1960 he graduated from Southern Technical Institute a division of Georgia Tech with a degree in Electronics Engineering. Ray moved to New Mexico and while living there, Ray met the love of his life and his best friend, Judy DeLong. They married in 1961 and celebrated their 60th Anniversary in September of last year. As Ray changed positions in the electronics industry they moved to several states, Georgia, Florida, California and back to Longwood, Florida, in 1977. Ray and Judy had great times moving to different cities and meeting new friends.
After their 3 children graduated from High School, they moved to DeLand, FL in 1985 and acquired a local business Smith Feed and Seed. He later renamed the business to Triple D Equipment which Judy had always said meant DeLongs in Delightful Deland. In 1990 they moved Triple D Equipment to another location off Firehouse Road where the business thrived. Ray’s motto was to foster “A Hometown Feeling” with the community. Even after hurricanes and major storms hit the area, Ray would open up Triple D, even though the business lost electricity and provide equipment needed to help the community. Ray’s business won several sales awards throughout his years as the owner of Triple D Equipment. Eventually Ray sold Triple D Equipment in 2018 and retired. He spent his retirement traveling with Judy on cruises and trips to Sanibel Island and Biloxi, MS. He also found a sense of relaxation by riding around on his tractor manicuring their property, helping his wife with her Koi Pond and spending time with his family.
On October 27, 2021, the love of his life, Judy passed away unexpectedly. Ray is survived by their children Leah DeLong, Larry DeLong and Steve DeLong (wife Lynn), 5 granddaughters, and 2 great-granddaughters and 1 great-grandson. Ray is also survived by 4 sisters.
In lieu of flowers you may donate to the Volusia County Cattlemen’s Association and always remember that “Hometown Feeling”.