Rev. Bob G. Ray, much loved United Methodist minister and public school teacher passed away on April 7, 2021 at his home in Owingsville, KY. At the time of his death, he was a Minister of Visitation at the Mt. Sterling First United Methodist Church. Previous to this, through many years, he served churches in Bath, Fleming, Nicholas and Mason Counties, and also in Illinois.
Rev. Ray was born in Greensburg, Indiana, on March 14, 1937 to Maurice (Pappy) and Pearl Thrasher Ray, who predeceased him. One sister, Donna Brandon, and one brother, Danny Ray, also predeceased him.
He graduated from Clarksburg Elementary and High School, then served in the Army and was stationed in Germany from February 2, 1956 to December 22, 1957. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and in Geography from Morehead State University. He also spent several summers studying at Duke University Divinity School.
He married Thelma (Dolly) Meadows on October 21, 1961 and she survives. He is also survived by three sons, Mike, Jeff (Lisa) and Tim (Michelle); four grandsons, Nathan, Collin, Ian and Taylor; two granddaughters, Geena and Mikayla; and one great grandson, Tyson. Also surviving is one sister Marilee Menkedick, Greensburg, one brother David (Loretta) Ray of Tennessee, and one sister-in-law Mary Stangles, Carrollton, Kentucky, and several nieces and nephews.
Rev. Ray donated his body to the University of Kentucky Medical School. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later time.