Raymond F. Moody, 81, of Fort Smith,Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2008, in Fort Smith. He was born January 8, 1927, in Massard, Arkansas. He was co-owner of Raymond F. Moody State Farm Insurance Agency with his beloved wife, Margie "Marge" Moody, who predeceased him in October, 2007. During his lifetime, Raymond served in the U.S. Army, and was a decorated veteran of World War II . After serving his country, he returned to his beloved bride, Marge in Fort Smith, where he became a cab driver for Black & White Cab Company. He also worked for Harding Glass Company, and then began his insurance career with Life of Georgia Insurance Company. In May of 1961. Raymond and Marge opened Raymond F. Moody State Farm Insurance Agency. Raymond paved the way for many State Farm agents in this area, and set an example of excellency in service to all of his policy holders for over 47 years. Raymond was a 32nd Degree Mason, a member of VFW Post 8845, received the Legion of Honor Insurance Award, the Ambassador of Life Travel Qualifier, together with many other State Farm Insurance awards. He most recently was a recipient of the 2006 Spirit of The Frontier Award. presented to him by Mayor Ray Baker on behalf of the City of Fort Smith.
Raymond was an avid golfer, and took great pride in teaching his grandson, Bryon Shumate, his "professional style" of golf. He and Marge had many great friends, and they lived life to the fullest in their 63 years of marriage. Raymond is survived by his loving daughter, Sherry Shumate, his son, Paul Moody, his Grandchildren, Bryon Shumate and his wife Missy, Jennifer Weege and her husband, Scott, and Patrick Moody and his wife, Jeannie. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren, and a host of great friends. Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday, at Lewis Funeral Chapel, with burial at Roselawn Cemetery in Fort Smith.