In Remembrance

In Memory of Hubert (Ray) Gresham

Hubert (Ray) Gresham, industry friend and colleague, passed away peacefully in his family home on September 14, 2008.

Ray founded Ray’s Sewing Center in San Jose, CA. He and his wife, Deon started the business in 1947. Ray’s Sewing Center has always provided superior customer support and sales and has won awards at different times over the years. At times, Ray’s Sewing Center has been one of the largest Pfaff, Bernina, Baby Lock, White, New Home, and Janome dealers in the country. Ray’s received the Janome Number One Single Store Dealer Award at the 2000 Janome Institute.

In 2001, Ray was inducted into the VDTA/SDTA Hall of Fame for his outstanding service in the sewing industry

Ray will always be remembered, as his legacy he worked so hard to create is still thriving today. Ken, his son, friend and long-time business partner, has and will continue to carry on the family’s legacy known by most people as Ray’s Sewing Machine Center. Ray’s success with passing on his trade to Ken can be seen in the third generation as well in his grand-daughter Lindsay. She has taken an active role with her father to make sure that it is and will always be… business as usual at Ray’s Sewing.

Ray is survived by two children, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who love and will miss him greatly. A Memorial took place September 19, 2008, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

The Vacuum & Sewing Dealers Trade Association expresses its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Ray Gresham.

Reprinted from SQE Professional, November 2008