William "Ray" Barton

William “Ray” Barton, 65, of Middleburg, FL passed away April 5, 2019. He was born May 5, 1953 in Macclenny, FL to the late William Brice and Myrtis Stewart Barton. He loved camping, fishing and riding his Goldwing. He will be remembered as a great law enforcement officer, husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Ray began his career at Macclenny Police Department around 1972. He came to the Green Cove Springs Police Department in 1982 and worked his way to the rank of Sergeant. In 1993, Ray was offered and accepted the position Undersheriff from Sheriff Murray Richardson at Baker County. After serving in Baker County for four years, he returned to Clay County and was hired by Sheriff Scott Lancaster as a deputy. Ray spent the rest of his career at Clay County Sheriff’s Office until he retired in 2010.

Ray is survived by his wife of 32 years, Gerilynn Barton; son, William Joseph Barton (Billy-Joe); siblings, Bobby, Buddy, Jimmy, Sue and Melissa; 2 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 am, Thursday, April 11, 2019 at Hickory Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Charlie Hunt officiating and the burial will follow at Penney Farms Cemetery.