Dr. Val C. Viray Jr.

Dr. Val C. Viray Jr., beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and respected dentist, passed away on May 22, 2026, at the age of 62.

Born on July 2, 1963, in Angeles City, Philippines, Val immigrated to the United States with his family in 1970 at the age of six. Throughout his life, he called several places home, including Cudahy, Wisconsin; Inglewood, New Jersey; Concord, California; and Salinas, California, where he ultimately established deep roots in the community. 

Val was dedicated to education and the pursuit of excellence. He attended Hartnell College in Salinas before earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of California, Davis. He later received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. In 1994, Dr. Viray opened his dental practice in Salinas, where he faithfully served his patients and community for more than three decades. He was a proud member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the Monterey Bay Dental Society. 

Outside of his profession, Val embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He enjoyed playing bass guitar with his good friends, photography, traveling, exploring the outdoors, and seeking out spicy foods wherever his adventures took him. His warmth, humor, generosity, and love for family and friends left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. 

Val was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Valeriano B. Viray, and his brother, Joey Viray. 

He is survived by his mother, Erlinda C. Viray; his brother, Jovy Viray (Marissa); and his sisters, Joy Viray Tawfik (Sameh), Jean Viray-Wigle (Matt), Jocelyn Viray Rocamora (Mars), Erlinda Viray Edwards (Robert), and Olga Viray Duke (Paul).

He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews: Shawn Lugan (Kymberlee), Eric Lugan, Michael and Ali Wigle, Jenalee Rocamora Jemera (Joe), Raymond and Kainoa Rocamora, Alexis and Priscilla Viray-Edwards, Robert Viray-Edwards III, and Cody Duke; as well as his cherished grand-niece, Ailyn Jemera, and grand-nephews, Isaiah, Aziel, and Cyrus Jemera. 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the viewing on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Healey Mortuary, 405 N. Sanborn Road, Salinas, California. Viewing hours will be from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with the Rosary beginning at 6:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Madonna del Sasso Church, 320 E. Laurel Drive, Salinas, California. The Mass will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed immediately by a reception at Cross Hall. 

Val's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as a son, brother, uncle, friend, musician, traveler, and devoted dentist. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.