"Shocked to learn of Kevin's passing. We went to grade school together. He was a good friend and a great basketball player. My condolences to the Ray family. May your faith give you support in this time of sorrow."
In loving memory of
MICHAEL KEVIN RAY
July 20, 1957 - October 9, 2017
Michael Kevin Ray, age 60, of Hamilton, went to be with the Lord October 9 at Ohio Living Mount Pleasant in Monroe. He was born in Hamilton, Ohio on July 20, 1957. He is survived by his wife, Donna Ray; three brothers, Earl Ray and wife Cindy of Hamilton; Denny Ray and wife Michelle of Hamilton; and Paul Ray and wife Laurie of Chillicothe; along with several nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Michael, who went by his middle name, Kevin, is the son of Lewis and Alice Ray, both deceased. Kevin was born and raised in Hamilton and lived there nearly all his life. He graduated from Taft Senior High School in 1975.
Kevin was a big fan of the Cincinnati Reds and U.K. basketball, frequently wearing jackets from one or the other teams. But, Kevin was especially known for his love of music, especially rock-n-roll. Kevin enjoyed going to concerts, usually going well before the starting time to secure a place in the front row, "leaning on the stage." He got personally acquainted with several rock stars, to the point of knowing some of them on a first-name basis.
He also was an avid autograph collector, amassing an impressive collection of autographs from both musicians and professional athletes. In more recent years, Kevin grew in his relationship with His Lord, often spending time taking long walks, reading the Bible on his own, and participating in a Bible study at Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Kevin's family and friends share that he was a kind and generous soul, often being more concerned about their welfare, than his own. Kevin and his wife, Donna, have been married for 20 years. Donna was at Kevin's side when he went home to be with the Lord.
Kevin's family has scheduled a visitation Friday, October 13 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Ivey Funeral Home at Rose Hill Burial Park, 2565 Princeton Road, Hamilton. The funeral will take place Saturday, October 14 at 10:00 a.m. at Rose Mausoleum Chapel at Rose Hill, 2421 Princeton Road, Hamilton.
Tributes
"So very sad to hear of Kevins passing I didn't know until I saw this me and Kevin graduated high school together we both loved the Reds and music you will be greatly missed my friend such a kind soul would do anything for anybody I will miss you so much my friend rest in peace Kevin you will be greatly missed by all who knew you may God bless you and your entire family"
"So sorry to hear this news! Many great memories of our "Arby Days" back in the 70's. Prayers for the entire Ray family."
"One of the kindest and gentlest souls I have ever known. I am honored to have been able to call Kevin a friend. I will really miss studying the Word with him, and listening to all that Pink Floyd together! Rest in Peace, my brother!!!!!!! I will miss you terribly. Until we meet again, Mark Plunkett"
"Love you Burt! You are still the inaugural champ of the Fort Hamilton Days basketball free throw shooting! God bless the Ray family!!!! "