Ernest Joe Ray

Ernest Joe Ray, 71, of Bath, passed away at OSF-St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, at 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2020. He was born July 27, 1948, in Beardstown to Woodrow and Arizona (Whitehead) Ray. He married Wanda Fry on March 27, 1969, in Bath. She survives. Mr. Ray is survived by his wife, Wanda, of Bath; three children: Jeff Ray of Bath, Jerod Ray of Pekin and Sarah Miller, of Jacksonville, as well as one granddaughter, Amelia. Also surviving are two siblings: Donna Mowder of Peoria and Morris Ray of Bath. He was preceded in death by his parents and five brothers and sisters: Allen Ray Marcella Ray, William Ray, Shirley Johnson and Sandy Hanley. Mr. Ray worked for Caterpillar Inc. for thirty-four years, retiring from the Receiving Department. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited, who enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors. Visitation will be held at Hurley Funeral Home in Havana on Monday, February 10 from 5 until 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 11, at 11 a.m., also at the funeral home. Rev. Abraham Mogerman will officiate. Burial will follow the services at Bath Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Online memorial messages may be left for the family at www.hurleyfh.com. Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.