I just received word that Ray Franz passed away today at 1:37 PM Eastern Daylight Time. The cause of death is stated as head trauma, likely due to falling to the ground, and a stroke could have also been part of the cause or a result of the fall. He died at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta about 17 minutes after being taken off life support. I understand that Ray had previously requested that no funeral or memorial service be held and that he be cremated.
I have no other information to share at this time, but as I receive anything new that is not already posted, I will post it to this board.
I will personally miss him very much as he was most responsible for my liberation from mental enslavement to false teachings of the Watchtower. I appreciate his courage and candor in revealing what he knew in such a stunning and responsible manner. While my life has moved forward, it will always be impacted by what Ray Franz did in helping me and so many others. I am sure many hundreds of thousands of former JWs will miss Ray and find his passing a sad event ... but who share together a common bond of liberation with him.
I hope and trust that Ray is now with the Lord enjoying eternal life in heaven.
Jim W.