Earl "Howard" Ray, Jr.

Earl Howard Ray, Jr., 97, of Harrisburg, passed away on Friday, August 5, 2022 at the Missouri Veterans Home, Mexico, Missouri.

Howard was born December 11, 1924 in Fayette to the late Earl, Sr. and Willie (Beaman) Ray.  On March 31, 1951, he married Marva Teller and she preceded him in death.  On May 3, 1980, he married Leona Kay Acton in Harrisburg.

Howard served with the 2622nd Army Air Force Base Unit during WWII from 1946 to 1947.  After his military service, he began his long career as a farmer.  He loved to read and spent his winters reading Zane Grey novels.  He enjoyed going to steam engine shows and showing his tractors.  He loved spending time with his dogs and family.

Howard is survived by his wife, Leona; daughters, Linda Persinger (Bill), Jo Bos, Earleena Ray; step children, William Strawn (Karla), Benny Strawn (Cynthia), Sondra Mullings (Joe); nephew, Bill Johnmeyer; four grandchildren; eight step grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and seven step great grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by son-in-law, Galon Bos and sister, Ruth Johnmeyer.

A graveside committal service with Military Honors will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at the Fayette City Cemetery, Fayette, Missouri.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Earl "Howard" Ray, Jr., please visit our floral store.