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DONALD RAY CLOSE

On the eve of our Sabbath, April 20, 2019, the suffering and pain of Donald Ray Close (Don), age 78, of Ashland, was placed in the hands of our Lord and Savior. He was surrounded by his family. 

Don was preceded in death by his father, Ray, and mother, Violet, and his brothers, Dean and Robert. He is survived by his longtime wife and caregiver of 56 years, Jean Close; three daughters, Tammy Spratley (Ernest), Sandy Close, Candy Close Eubank (Mark); three grandsons and his sister, Sharon. 

Don was born March 12, 1941 in Ohio and moved to Gwynn’s Island in the mid-1950s. Don Close, aka “Mr. Basketball,” gained recognition and his nickname by playing basketball at Mathews County High School during his teenage years coached by Mr. Allen Moughon. Don broke many records including an all-time record of scoring 1,077 points. Don enjoyed basketball and always gave 100% to his team and his fans. 

Don became an accomplished welder through apprenticeship at the shipyard, before achieving Nuclear Certification. He joined the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 10 and retired after 40+ years of service. 

A private service will be held in his honor.