by Trinity, Florida — A tragic incident has left a Florida family heartbroken after their loved one, an 83-year-old Navy veteran with dementia, was found dead inside a walk-in freezer at an assisted living facility where he was supposed to be receiving specialized care.
Authorities identified the man as William Eugene “Gene” Ray, a father of two and longtime U.S. Navy serviceman. His death has sparked questions about safety and oversight at the Waverly Assisted Living and Memory Care facility in Trinity, Florida.
Daughter’s Camera Footage Helped Uncover Her Father’s Disappearance
Ray’s daughter, Kristen Spencer, had installed a Ring camera in her father’s room earlier this year as his dementia began to worsen. The camera allowed her to check on him remotely and ensure that he was safe.
But on September 26, Spencer noticed something was off.
“When I checked the camera, the light was on, but my dad wasn’t in the room,” she told FOX 13.
Concerned, Spencer reviewed the footage and discovered that her father had left his room around 12:30 a.m. the previous night — and never returned. She immediately called her mother, who then contacted the Waverly facility to alert the staff.
Hours later, Spencer received a devastating phone call.
“But then the next words out of her mouth were, ‘He’s in the freezer.’ And I said, ‘What do you mean he’s in the freezer?’” Spencer recounted.
A staff member had reportedly found Ray’s body inside a walk-in freezer located within the facility.
Investigation Finds No Immediate Signs of Foul Play
The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a preliminary investigation found no signs of foul play, though questions remain about how Ray gained access to the freezer and how long he was inside.
Ray’s family said there were no major issues with the facility prior to the tragedy, but small concerns had been surfacing in recent weeks. “Little things started to send up concerns,” Spencer said, describing how she had begun to worry about security lapses in the building.
Now, the family wants accountability.
“If we had not called the facility, when would they have found him?” Spencer questioned. “When you have vulnerable people in a place, you have to secure these areas.”
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Facility Responds to Backlash and Online Criticism
In a public statement, Waverly Assisted Living and Memory Care expressed deep sorrow over Ray’s death but defended its staff and policies.
“We have never experienced an incident of this nature in the many years of operating in the assisted living space,” the facility said. “Our community is deeply saddened by this heartbreaking loss. The grief felt by our entire staff is indescribable.”
The statement continued, emphasizing the staff’s efforts and professionalism during the incident.
“We are truly proud of our staff’s profound and immediate response to the situation and grateful for their continued compassion, dedication, and professionalism. We remain confident in the high level of service, comfort, and care we provide our residents as one of the premier assisted living and memory care communities in Florida.”
The Waverly also urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation online, noting that “unmoderated, anonymous, non-factual reviews” could harm the staff and families involved.
A Life of Service and Dedication
William “Gene” Ray lived a life marked by service, discipline, and care for his family. He joined the U.S. Navy at just 17 years old, serving his country for 36 years before retiring.
After his military service, he continued working — first with a private land surveying firm and later at the Department of Transportation in Bartow, Florida.
Ray’s obituary described him as a loving father, devoted husband, and proud veteran who valued loyalty and family above all else.
Family Seeks Change to Prevent Future Tragedies
Ray’s family is now calling for stronger safety measures at assisted living and memory care facilities — including restricted access to hazardous areas and more rigorous staff supervision.
“No other family should have to endure what we have,” Spencer said. “When you put your loved one in a place like that, you’re trusting that they’re being kept safe.”
The Florida Department of Health and Agency for Health Care Administration are expected to review the incident as part of standard procedure when a death occurs in a licensed care facility.
A Reminder of the Need for Oversight
Ray’s death highlights the urgent need for improved monitoring and security systems in facilities caring for residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Experts say that even minor lapses in oversight can lead to devastating outcomes, especially for residents prone to confusion or wandering.
As investigations continue, families across Florida are now questioning how to ensure their loved ones receive the protection and dignity they deserve in assisted living settings.
What do you think should be done to improve safety in memory care facilities? Join the conversation and share your thoughts at race-day-live.com.
