Harry F. Ray, 90 of Johnston City passed away Monday Morning November 20, 2017 at 2:15 a.m. at the Veterans CLC in Marion Illinois.
Harry was born in Murphysboro, Il on August 4, 1927 to Ruth (Wilson) and James Ray. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era.
He married Margie L. Davis on March 9, 1944 she proceeded him in death.
Harry never met a stranger. He would always say " Everyone likes me and I don't blame them a bit". He worked to help support his family as a very young man. Early employment included working on the pipe line, produce and grocery clerk and then manager at Kroger in Johnston City. He also was a Hostess Cake salesman. Harry retired from the coal mine (Consol) at the age of 62. But he never slowed down. He loved his roses, purple martins and especially his family.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Herrin, Illinois.
Harry is survived by his daughters Barbara Buckner and Mary Ray-Foster of Johnston City, Sheryl Ray-Eaton of Herrin. Daughter-in-law Jean Ann Ray of Johnston City. Grandchildren, David Buckner (Angel) and Jeff Buckner (Laura), Ashlea Ray, Dana Morris, Jamie Brush (Allan), Steven Ray (April), Samantha Bean (Joshua), Daniel Ray, Harry Ray III (Lacy), Abby Eaton and Ricky Eaton. A very special friend Richard Pasquino. 17 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great grandchildren and 2 on the way.
He was also proceeded in death by his parents, brothers James, Charles, Harold, Robert and Clifford Joe. Sisters Mary Perschbacher, Margaret Cobb and Norma Spiller. Sons Jackie Dean Ray and Harry Jr. Ray. Son-in-law Brad Buckner and great-granddaughter Kailey N. Bean.
Visitation will be from 11:00 to 1:00 with services at 1:00 Friday Novenber 24 at Murman and Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City with Pastor Keith Fletcher officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois or the Alzheimer's Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the Doctors, Nurses and Staff at the Veterans CLC living Center in Marion.
REST IN PEACE Daddy, we love you and will miss you greatly.