Homer “Joe” Ray, aged 86, of Springfield, MO went to be with the Lord on May 27, 2023 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield. He was born on September 1, 1936 in Springfield, MO and was one of 18 children born to Homer Garfield and Lola (Gard) Ray.

After graduating from Fair Grove, MO in 1955 he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Alabama.  Joe soon met the love of his life, Norma Jean Pratt, and they were united in marriage on December 23, 1960.

Joe was an amazing employee and had an excellent work ethic working in manufacturing for 26 years at Dayco and several years at Zenith to ultimately support his wife and children. He loved the Lord, his family, and music.  Joe’s favorite pastimes included playing his harmonica in jam sessions with his fellow musicians.  He was also an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching boxing matches from time to time. He will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his lottery tickets, and humble spirit.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Norma Jean, his parents, 7 brothers, 3 sisters and one granddaughter, Rachel Marie Gilmartin.

Joe is survived by his four children and their spouses, Gloria and Ron White of Springfield, MO, Ron and Debbie Ray of Fair Grove, MO, Pam and Dana Williams of Strafford, MO, and Melissa and Don Gilmartin of Fair Grove, MO. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and their spouses, Kristina and Calvin Jackson, Oklahoma City, OK, Greg and Lacey White, Fair Grove, MO, Keith White, Strafford, MO, Ronnie and Anna Ray, Fair Grove, MO, Matt Williams, Strafford, MO, Cassi and Phil Dowden, Rogersville, MO, Brad Williams, Strafford, MO, Ashley and Aaron McIntosh, Fair Grove, MO, and Abigail Gilmartin, Fair Grove, MO; 14 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Lloyd and Deryl; five sisters Rosalee, Wynaka, Dorothy, Mary, and Madene; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00-8:00 pm on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at Greenlawn Funeral Home, North.  A graveside service will be on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 11:00 am in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in Fair Grove, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children Miracle Network. Memories and condolences may be left online at www.greelawnfuneralhome.com.