Ronnie Dean Ray, 82, of St. Louis, Missouri, born November 8, 1942, went home to be with Jesus on Saturday, December 7, 2024. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Margie Albertson Tubb; father, Dallas (Bertha) Ray; and sister, Marcella Ray Siegrist.

Lovingly remembered by his wife, Ellen Ray; daughter, Michelle and husband Michael Howard, Columbia, Illinois; stepsons, Thomas and wife Lynn Nadratowski, Spring Arbor, Michigan, Michael Schmidt, Florida; stepdaughter, Amy and husband Carlos Salcedo, Grand Rapids, Michigan; brother, Frank and wife Linda Ray, Dexter, Missouri; grandsons, Zachary Howard, Sheldon and wife Maddie Howard, Cody Bender, Austin Schmidt, Carlos Junior; Granddaughters, Abigail Howard, Jazelle Salcedo, Aminah Salcedo, Rhiannon, Neil, Medici; and great-grandchildren, Berkley and Hudson Howard.

Ronnie dedicated thirty years of his life to Cupples Products Company in Maplewood, Missouri working as a skilled tool and die maker. He took immense pride in his contributions to the St. Louis Arch, a symbol of innovation and strength that reflected his own character.

In his free time, Ronnie found joy in the great outdoors, spending countless hours hunting and fishing. His love for motorcycles was matched only by his deep faith, which led him to serve as a State Road Representative and Ride Captain for Road Riders for Jesus. This role allowed him to combine his passion for riding with his mission to encourage and uplift others through fellowship and prayer.

Ronnie had a lifelong love for music and cherished the moments he could play guitar alongside his brother and sister. His laughter was contagious, a sound that brought comfort and happiness to everyone around him. As a friend, he was unwavering in his support, always quick to offer a kind word, a hearty laugh, or a prayer in times of need.

Above all, being a grandpa held a special place in Ronnie’s heart. He relished every opportunity to babysit and watch his grandchildren grow, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Ronnie’s life was a testament to kindness, faith, and dedication. His legacy of love, laughter, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held in April 2025, at The Rock Church South County, 4101 Telegraph Road, Lemay, Missouri. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and remember Ronnie’s extraordinary life. The exact date and time will be announced later.

In remembrance of Ronnie’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Hospice Foundation of America in gratitude for their compassionate care. Contributions can be sent directly to https://hospicefoundation.org/donate/.