Raymond Wolfe, age 93, of Springfield, passed away at the Strafford Care Center on January 17, 2023. Raymond was born to Guy and Maude (Davis) Wolfe on October 21, 1929, in Forsyth, Missouri. Raymond moved to Springfield at the age of 16 in hopes of finding a better job. It didn’t take long for Raymond to find employment and the love of his life. On August 6, 1949, Raymond was united in marriage to Betty Jean McNabb. The couple shared 68 years of blissful marriage before Betty’s untimely passing on November 17, 2016. Raymond and Betty were blessed with a mutually fulfilling relationship and two loving children, Ray and Brenda. 

From an early age, Raymond liked to work with his hands, stay busy, and help others. His interest in home improvement projects and helping others eventually led to the establishment of his own business. For over 30 years, Raymond owned and operated Wolfe Carpet and Furniture, originally located on Main Street in Strafford. After several years, Raymond moved his successful business to Springfield. Raymond’s business continued to thrive in Springfield until his retirement. Throughout his career, Raymond installed countless carpets and sold innumerable pieces of high-quality furniture. After retiring from his business, Raymond continued to serve his community as a school custodian. Raymond’s final retirement came after serving many years as a beloved custodian at Strafford Elementary. Raymond enjoyed his work at the school where he was appreciated and adored by all students and staff. 

While Raymond had many interests and hobbies, his favorite pastime was going to area flea markets, making deals, and buying treasures for his home. When not browsing flea markets, Raymond enjoyed watching old westerns, especially those that featured his favorite actor—John Wayne. He also had a love of classic country music, jumbo shrimp, chicken livers, and biscuits and gravy. Nothing, however, compared to the love he had for his wife. In the words of his children, “our mom was his whole world.” Raymond loved Betty with all his heart. mind, and soul. The couple shared a love that was enviable by any standard. He will be remembered as a man of character who was genuinely kind, trustworthy, fair-minded, and honorable. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Maude Wolfe; his wife of 68 years, Betty; and two sisters, Virginia Yarberry and Carolyn Cameron. He is survived by his children, Ray Wolfe, Brenda Burr and husband Mark; grandson, Jeffrey Needham and wife Angela; two great grandchildren, Kimberley Needham and Kylie Needham; sister, Patricia Jones and husband Jerry; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. 

A visitation for Raymond Wolfe will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 pm on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield (3506 N National Avenue). The family would like to thank the Strafford Care Center for providing Raymond with exceptional care and personalized support. 

In lieu of flowers, a charitable donation can be made in Raymond’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (donors@stjude.org or 800-478-5833). Please consider a donation to honor Raymond and cure childhood cancer.