Robert W. Ray 1931-2025

Born May 24, 1931, in Warren, Bob was the eldest child of the late Raymond James and Edith Sidells Ray.

He graduated from Warren G. Harding High School in January 1949 and was later drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War, serving two years as a draftsman. After returning home, he attended Youngstown College (now Youngstown State University) on the GI Bill, earning a degree in education. He continued his artistic studies at the Cooper School of Art in Cleveland.

Bob shared his passion for art throughout his life. He taught art in both New York State and Ohio before returning to Cleveland, where he spent many years as a finished artist at American Greetings. He later designed monuments for local cemeteries and eventually opened his own custom framing business, where his talent and craftsmanship were deeply appreciated.

A cancer survivor for 36 years, Bob was known for his unwavering optimism and zest for learning. He enjoyed daily crossword puzzles, evening episodes of “Jeopardy!,” and several memorable trips to Europe, where he explored many of the world’s most renowned art museums.

Bob lived his Christian faith with devotion and humility. A longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Warren, he sang in the choir — performing annual renditions of Handel’s Messiah — and faithfully cleaned the church each week. He also volunteered at Trumbull Memorial Hospital for seven years, where he was regularly recognized for his kindness and service to others.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, the former Nancy Fortuna, whom he married in 1972; his sons, Christopher Robert (Clare) and Mark David (Amanda); four grandchildren, Elizabeth, Rose, Alex and Anastasia; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Theodore Russell “Ted” Ray and Willard Frederick Ray.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society dining hall or food pantry.

Friends may call for visitation 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov 26, 2025, at St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish-St. Mary Church, 232 Seneca St., Warren, with a funeral Mass to celebrate Bob’s wonderful life at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Fr. Christopher Cicero as celebrant.

Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

All are invited to a luncheon reception to follow in the church social hall.

Arrangements by Ferfolia Funeral Home, Sagamore Hills, 330-467-4500, www.ferfoliafuneralhomes.com.

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