Curtis Rayford Hart

Curtis Rayford Hart passed away on January 25, 2023, after a long illness at the age of 70 in Tucker, Georgia. He was born on November 9, 1952 in Mobile, Alabama where his family has deep roots. His father worked for the railroad and as a result Ray developed a deep passion for transportation. He was enthusiastic about airplanes. In the early 1970’s his family moved to the Atlanta area where he completed high school. Ray graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a BS Degree in Chemical Engineering and MS in Metallurgy. He worked for Department of Defense contractors at Lockheed-Georgia, Lockheed-California Skunk Works, and Boeing Rocket Systems.

Throughout his life he never used his first name in daily use. Ray always corrected people to call him by his preferred name. Even shortly before his death he corrected a nurse to call him Ray.

Throughout his long illness and endless pain, he never complained about his suffering. Whenever anyone did anything for him, he never missed an opportunity to thank them.

Ray loved his family. Although he was bed bound, Ray kept up with the lives of his family. He took joy in their accomplishments, especially those of his nephew and nieces. From time to time he gave them gifts and supported them as much as possible. Frequently, he sent flowers to his wife. He loved surprising her.

Everyone who knew him knew he loved Georgia Tech sports and followed them closely. Once he required a wheelchair, he collected Georgia Tech clothing, and that’s what he wore for most outings. He complained constantly about wearing a hat to go outdoors one winter until his wife gave him Georgia Tech hat. Afterwards, Ray was happy to wear his Georgia Tech cap.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents Curtis Woodrow Hart and Myrtle (Hanvey) Hart. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Teresa Atkinson Hart; sister Paula Hart King; nephew Brent King and his wife Brandy; mother-in-law Carolyn Atkinson; brother-in-law Keith Atkinson and his wife, Jaye; and nieces Robin and Rose Atkinson.

Donations may be made to the Church on Main Music Department in Snellville, Ga. A memorial service will be held at a later date.