Raymond Wilmer

Raymond E Wilmer Jr, 46, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday Dec 3, 2022 at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, surrounded by loved ones. He was a son, a partner, a philanthropist, a community supporter and activist, a dog-dad to Presley and Regan, a beloved leader to his work family and a friend to many people who came to know him. He was often described as “joyful with an infectious laugh, a light, a connector of people, the life of the party, a fierce confidant and friend, a snappy dresser and a fount of useless knowledge.” Raymond was born March 31, 1976 in Bakersfield, CA, lived in Orem, UT for a year, before building his home and community in Las Vegas, NV, where he has resided for 25 years. He is survived by his partner Isaiah Harris, mother Jalna Clason, step father Richard Clason, father Ray Wilmer Sr, brother Bryan Wilmer, his beloved dogs Presley & Regan. Raymond was a tireless advocate for equality, awareness and for those who didn’t have the same opportunities or platforms that he created by sheer will and passion. He served as former President of the Board of Directors for The Center, where he oversaw a capital campaign that allowed The Center to move to its current location, significantly improving the quality and quantity of programming, and setting The Center squarely in the attention of the Las Vegas philanthropic community. He was recognized by The Center with a Lifetime Legacy award at their 2021 Honorarium. Three years in a row Raymond made the 545 mile cycling journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles to raise money and awareness for AIDS/Lifecycle, raising over $20,000. His other philanthropic efforts included Fashion Council, Make A Wish, and numerous other nonprofit ventures as a volunteer, advisor, and community galvanizer. While his activism provided a legacy of giving and education, it is the hearts he touched along the way that suffer an immense sense of loss. Raymond could light up any room, but then sit alongside you in the mundane as your personal cheerleader. He taught people how to give back, assembled fierce teams of friends to champion causes and one another, and has been described by his loved ones as “shoving you through doors” you were too afraid to approach alone. He didn’t just advocate for causes, he advocated for the human spirit to always prevail. He was the pep talk and the kick in the rear you needed even when you didn’t want it. Raymond could often be found on road trips; collecting new friends, stories and photos of plants and flowers - only he knew the names of - along the way. He passed from an unexpected heart attack doing what he loved - preparing to entertain a group of friends for a Friendsgiving celebration. One of his recent text exchanges echoed his view of life and friendship and may serve as encouraging words (and marching orders) for those who feel this profound sense of loss: “I love you. So much. I’m a world away and think of you all the time. Be well and love the folks around you.” A Celebration of Life will be held at The Center in January (details forthcoming). In lieu of flowers, consider directing donations to The Raymond Wilmer Memorial Fund at The Center (www.thecenterlv.org and select the memorial account) so that his legacy may continue to light the way for others.