Roland "Ray" Addington

Roland Ray Addington left this earth to return to his loving Heavenly Father on September 6, 2025. He peacefully passed away in Chandler, Arizona, surrounded by loved ones, following health complications and years of battling Alzheimer’s. 

“Ray” was born on July 7, 1939, in Mesa, Arizona, to Roland Michael Addington and Marva Perkins. As a young man, he served in the U.S. Navy for four years. Soon after, he married the love of his life, Fayrene, on June 15, 1962. He graduated from Arizona State University with his bachelor’s degree and later, his Juris Doctorate in 1972. During his career, he served as a public defender, a public prosecutor, and a partner in a private law firm. In 2000, Ray was sworn in as a judge in Chandler, Arizona, where he dutifully served for 10 years. In his spare time, Ray loved to fish. Ray was also a talented musician. He could illuminate any room or crowd with his guitar and warm voice, often to the tune of his Country favorites. 

Above all, Ray loved his wife and his family. From coaching little league to spending countless Saturdays at wrestling meets or dance competitions to bass fishing trips in Mexico, Ray was devoted to celebrating the ‘wins’ and cheering us on. He was also there during the difficult moments, with effortless and unconditional love. He had a quiet wisdom that made you feel grounded, even when life was uncertain. He knew how to listen, even when words were hard to find. It was as if he always knew just what to do, or just the right joke to lighten the moment. He extended compassion to everyone he met and immeasurably touched the lives of his family, friends, and community. He led with action, making hard work look fun and working hard to have fun: our rock, guide, and greatest supporter.

Even as we grieve this loss, may we embrace this life as Ray did. May we carry on his legacy by extending our hands to those in need, sharing our talents to uplift and enlighten, and holding our loved ones tightly, just as Ray did.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Fayrene Addington, and his five children, Michael Bret Addington (spouse Julie Addington), Valerie Skidmore (spouse Dale Skidmore), Angela Whitman (spouse Brad Whitman), Marcie Rae McGee (spouse Brett McGee), and Kurtis Ray Addington, as well as his brother, Jay Addington (spouse Sandy Addington), his 21 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. He was preceded by his great-grandson, Kaden Addington Fife, now in a joyous Heavenly reunion. 

The funeral services for Ray will take place on September 13, 2025, at 11 AM, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 495 S Greenfield Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296. Preceding the service, a viewing will be held at 9:30 AM.