On September 23rd, 2010, Ray Chandler lost a battle with an illness he acquired while doing what he loved most, coaching softball. There are only a handful of people who come into your world and touch your life in a dramatic fashion. Some of these people are just flickers of light during your life, while others are consistent glows for years. Ray was a consistent glow. He was my friend for close to 10 years. For the Cardinals girls, he was a teacher, a mentor, and a friend as well.
Ray allowed me to be part of a wonderful organization and was the one person I enjoyed spending time with at the ball field all day. He taught me that life is short, and the most important part of life is the people in it. I will be grateful for his teachings forever and for what he did for my eldest daughter.
I thought of Ray's accomplishments in softball today; played against the Olympic Team and a touring Japanese team, won an ASA National Championship, was named Team of the Year in Softball Today magazine, and was inducted into the ASA Hall of Honor to just name a few. Then I thought, the real accomplishment was building his players to be confident and capable in all aspects of life.
These thoughts brought back many good memories, and in particular, the time he publicly announced to a batter in Colorado that she was bunting on the next pitch. It was loud enough that everyone within 100 yards knew as well, and despite this instruction, anyone watching was unsure what was going to happen. The batter did bunt and she was safe. An unorthodox style for some, Ray always challenged his players with what they needed most and truly loved to watch them grow. I will miss that certain smile he got when he talked to one of his players and the light went on for her about ball or about life.
To his wife Sharyn, and his daughters Monica and Erin, we love you as if you were our own. In many ways you are. We want you to know that the Cardinal family will be there for you in this difficult time. We will help ease the suffering that you are going through.
Ray, we love you. We miss you. You have graced our lives more than you will ever know.
God bless.
Please take a few moments to remember Coach Chandler.
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 He restores my soul,
he guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Psalm 23:1-6