John R. Ray (Lebanon)'s Obituary
John R. Ray of Lebanon, Missouri, passed away in his home Monday, June 5, 2023. At the time of his passing he was seventy-five years, eleven months and three days. John was born July 2, 1947 in Fall River, Kansas to Kenneth W. Ray and Mary Lorrina Brothers Ray.
He grew up in the area of Emporia and Madison, Kansas and entered the United States Army following his education. He served as a border guard in Germany for the Army. After his service in the Army, he worked for several years in Kansas as a truck driver. John then moved to Lebanon, Missouri where he opened his business, Can-U-Canoe. He had this business for thirty years and enjoyed meeting people from all over the country who would come to his shop. Late in his career, he went back into trucking, driving for Lowe Boats.
John was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Nikki Perry; Respie Rhoads; his brother, Norman Ray; and two sisters, Marion Rutherford and Anna LaVerna Rhoads.
He is survived by his daughters, Amy Hankins of Glen Rose, Texas, Stephanie Perry of Lebanon, Missouri and Shawna Motsinger of Sedalia, Missouri; his son, John Elijah (Eli) Scott Ray of Lebanon, Missouri; a sister, Sheila Ahlgrim of Oklahoma; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
John really enjoyed being with his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were very special to him and he enjoyed being with them as much as possible. He liked playing poker and watching westerns. His favorite western movies were ones that starred John Wayne.
John was a hard worker all his life. He loved his family and friends and getting together with them, making wonderful memories. He was a wonderful man and will be missed by those who knew and loved him.
All services will be private.
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