At Three Rivers Health Center, West Point, Ellis Ray Hogge, a native of Wicomico, Gloucester County, and a lifelong member of Providence Baptist Church, died at the age of 90 on Sunday, June 5, 2022. Ellis Ray was a faithful employee with Lou Smith Supermarket and Farm Fresh. He always smiled, whistled a happy tune, and greeted shoppers with a southern gentleman’s handshake or a hug. He was preceded in death by his wife Inez; grandsons, John West and Allen Hogge; parents, Joseph D. and Ida Mae West Hogge; siblings, Edith Kellum, David Hogge, Steve Hogge, James Hogge, Wilmore Hogge, Margie Davis, Mary Frances Haywood, and Thelma Hall. Survivors include two children, Shirley Stotesbury (Lee), Kevin Hogge (Marsha); grandchildren, Justin West (Sarah), Ray Hogge (Karen), Tabitha Turner (Andrew), Brandon Stotesbury (Heather), Ashley Laing (Derek); 12 great-grandchildren; his “Sweetie” for over 20 years, Emma Lou Guy; siblings, India Hall, Lynwood Hogge, Buddy Lee Hogge, Calvin Hogge, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family will receive friends at Providence Baptist Church, 3501 Providence Road, Hayes, Va. 23072, on Friday, June 10, 2022, from 2-2:45 p.m. The funeral service conducted by the Rev. Tom Cohick will begin at 3 o’clock, followed by interment in the church cemetery. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made Beech Grove Baptist Church, Attention: Benevolence Fund, P.O. Box 468, White Marsh, Va. 23183. Irving Berlin said it best, Love Never Dies. The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.

Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home.