It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Ray, a man of exceptional character and faith. Bob was born on February 12, 1935, and passed away on November 14, 2023. He lived a life defined by selfless service, hard work, and deep love and care for others.

Bob was an immeasurably giving, sacrificial, loving, and serving man. Throughout his life, he maintained a steadfast dedication to enriching the lives of others and making a positive change in the world. Bob's heart was centered around people and giving to those less fortunate. He dedicated his life to helping people and serving God as a minister. Bob believed that, although faith in Jesus is individual and personal, Christianity is best lived out within the church, where people experience and share the love of God through community. His passion for meeting needs with others led him to service in Amor Ministry, Walk to Emmaus, Kairos Prison Ministry, Aldersgate Renewal Ministries, and as president of Habitat for Humanity and Rotary International in several locations. 

Bob went to Union Seminary in New York, and was ordained as a Methodist pastor in 1960. His first appointment was to a vacant lot in Tucson, Arizona, where he organized a new congregation and constructed a sanctuary and education building which became  St. Paul's Methodist Church. He went on to serve in a number of churches in Arizona, California, and Nevada before his retirement as a pastor more than 40 years later.

After retirement, his passion to serve others and his sacrificial spirit continued when Bob founded his own ministry, Casitas de Cristo. Through this ministry, Bob built 30 houses for those in need in Mexico, working alongside of teams from churches across the country.  The relationships that were formed during this time between  team members, recipient families, and members of Iglesia Ismaschias in San Luis Rio Colorado and other Mexican Methodist churches and pastors,  were dear to his heart. 

The cornerstone of Bob's life was ministry, followed equally by his dedication to his beloved family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Catherine and Willard Ray, his first wife Alison Sears Ray, and his sister and brother-in-law Kay and Bruce Burkhart. He is survived by his wife, Randa Ray; his sister Carol (Bob) Hill, his children Jeri (Craig) Carson, Robert Ray, Jr., James Ray, Katrina Moore, Tracey (Ray) Williams, Jennifer (Michael) Haymore, and Sarah Sol; his grandchildren Kyle (Allyson) Carson, Daniel (Victoria) Carson, Christy Carson, Bethany Carson, Jonathan Carson, Shauna Wildey, Samantha (Chris) Gorski, Sabrina (Pablo) Uranga, Cailin (Ian) Brooks, Kim Ray, Kelly Ray, Natasha Ray, Kenzie Moore, Brianna Moore, and Zachary Haymore; and 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

His legacy of service and devotion remains as a beacon of inspiration for all who knew him. Bob was a man who accepted all people, near or far, with open arms. He tirelessly cared for, gave to, and served others, embodying a true spirit of humanity that will be remembered and cherished forever.

In lieu of flowers, the Ray family is kindly requesting donations to UMCOR, a cause close to Bob's heart. Donations can be made at https://everloved.com/life-of….

Bob's life was an extraordinary testament to the power of love, compassion, and service. The world is undoubtedly a better place for having had him in it. His contributions and the lessons he generously shared will continue to inspire, as we remember his ever-giving and loving spirit.

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