Robert “Bob” Ray, 90, of Butler, was a man with the biggest heart, whose life was defined by hard work, kindness, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family. Bob was born on December 18, 1935, and went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 28, 2026. He grew up in Portersville, where he graduated from Muddy Creek High School in 1953.
Bob met the love of his life, Shirley, who he wed on August 28, 1957. They were a true example of unconditional love and were married for 69 years. He built them a home in Portersville, where they raised their family. That home became the heart of so many family memories.
Bob was a true jack-of-all-trades who could build or fix just about anything. He was a hard worker his entire life, spending many years working at Sharon Tubing mill. When he wasn’t at the mill, he could almost always be found helping a friend, neighbor, or family member with whatever needed to be done. He never hesitated to lend a hand and rarely met a problem he couldn’t figure out how to fix.
Outside of work, Bob could be found in his garden or meticulously mowing and caring for his beautiful lawn. But his greatest pride and joy was always his family.
Bob had a special gift for giving everyone in the family a personalized nickname that somehow stuck and became part of who they were. These nicknames were more than just names; they were a reflection of the unique bond and love he had with each person.
To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Pap Pap”. He was deeply involved in their lives and was there for countless sporting events, milestones, and everyday moments. He always made time for them and had a special way of making everyone laugh by simply goofing around and being himself. Some of their most treasured memories with him were Saturday mornings spent at Pap Pap’s house, eating pancakes while listening to polka music.
In his later years, Bob’s great-grandchildren became the center of his world. He adored them deeply, and they brought him a special kind of happiness and joy during the final years of his life.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, generosity, and family. He taught those around him the value of showing up, lending a hand, working hard, and never taking life too seriously. His home, his garden, his laughter, and especially the love he gave his family will remain part of his legacy. He will be missed beyond words and loved forever.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley (Davidson) Ray; his children, Virginia (James) Craig, Donna Ray, Robert “Pete” (Diane) Ray, and Kathy (Harry) Pifer; his grandchildren, Michael Craig, Robin (David) Portman, Summer (Matthew) Dunlap, Samantha (Ryan) Lasko, Ryan Ray, Rachael (John) Bowling, and Matthew Ray; and his great-grandchildren, Addison and Austin Portman and Cameron Lasko. He is also survived by his siblings, Helen (Rich) Cable, Flora (the late Charles) Van Gorder, and Linda (Paul) Flecken.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mary Marjorie Ray, and his brother, James Ray, and sister-in-law, Beth Ray.
All arrangements were made through SPENCER D. GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 140 NEW CASTLE RD. BUTLER, PA 16001. WWW.SPENCERDGEIBEL.COM. The family plans to honor Bob with a private service.