Jerry L. Ray

Jerry L. Ray, 75, Woodstock, died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at Centegra Hospital – McHenry, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born June 23, 1938, in Ripley Tenn., to Charles Lackey and Lillie Pearl (Walden) Ray.  

On Dec. 21, 1958, he married Nina R. McLemore in Ripley.

He worked at Brake Parts for more than 35 years. He loved the outdoors, especially when he was going fishing with his children, his grandchildren or his buddies. He also enjoyed gardening. 

He was an active member of the Woodstock Moose Lodge and was a devoted Chicago Bears and Cubs fan. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and son. 

Survivors include his wife;  a son, Michael (Barbie “Gale”) Ray, Hoffman Estates; two daughters, Cindy Ray, Woodstock, and Annette (Tom) Grell, Woodstock; three grandchildren, Tyler Ray, Jerred “Little Buddy” Grell and Ali “Whistle Britches” Grell; brothers and sisters, LaNelle (Milton) Gay, Martha (Elmer) Meyers, Bobby (Lora Faye) Ray, Sue (Paul) McLemore and Deanie (Sonny) Grisham; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Charles Lackey Ray Jr.; and a sister, Maxine (Harry) Jones.

A visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral Saturday, Sept. 28, at Schneider-Leucht Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery, Woodstock.

Memorials can be made to the family for designation at a later date.