Former Norton, KS resident, James D. Ray passed away on February 6, 2024 in Manhattan, Kansas.
He was born on March 20, 1943 in Almena, KS the son of Christopher and Zorah Mae (Moser) Ray.
On July 30th, 1972, Jim married Jeanne K. Rogers in Long Island, KS.
Survivors include Jeanne of the home in Manhattan, KS, Jason Ray and wife Richelle, of Silver Lake, KS, Jaime Kaus and Husband Mike of Manhattan, KS, Michele Pitt of Oklahoma City, OK., Kevin Stumpe and wife Myra, of Odessa, IX, Eric Stumpe and wife Robin of Aurora, CO, and Kerry Stumpe and wife Michele of Atlanta, GA. 12 Grandchildren: Olivia Ray, Lane Ray, Carter Kaus, Kinsley Kaus, Garrett Boeckman, Kody Stumpe, Makayla Avery, Lauren Fritz, Ashleigh Smith, Meaghan Leininger, Isabella Stumpe & Kourtney Stumpe and 5 great grandchildren: Benjamin, Maiya, Aspen, Jeremiah, & Carleigh.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Christopher & Zorah, brothers: Bud, Bill, Rich, Bob; and sisters: Nadine Brooks, Delores Smalley, and Donna Keiswetter.
Jim graduated from Almena High School with the Class of 1961.
After graduation he worked for the Railroad, Gall Motors, Halls Clothing, Coopers Pest Control & the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks as Assistant Wildlife/Parks Manager at the Prairie Dog State Park in Norton, Kansas. He retired after 21 years of service in October 2006.
Jim joined the Norton Christian Church and was baptized by Darel Boston on November 7, 1982.
His greatest love was his wife, Jeanne of 51 ½ years, children and grandchildren.
He enjoyed the outdoors including boating, water skiing, camping, and fishing. He also enjoyed his yard, refinishing furniture, family get togethers, attending the grandkids football, basketball, baseball, wrestling, dance recitals, and volleyball games, playing cards, and having coffee with his buddies at Moffet Drug Store.
He loved all sports but most of all took pride in attending and watching KU Basketball.
Jim will be remembered by many friends and family by his big smile, outgoing personality, and love for life.
A celebration of life will be held in the Norton Cemetery, Norton, KS at 11 o’clock on Saturday, June 15th, 2024 with lunch following at the Norton Christian Church.
Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, KS is in charge of arrangements.