Ray passed away at Community Medical Center in Missoula, Montana. He was diagnosed with a rare form of bladder cancer and fought a tough battle against it, for ten months.
At 19-years-old, Ray enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for four years as Security. In those four years, he made rank of Sergeant. He worked as a roofer for most of his life, until his illness forced him to retire. Ray was a hard worker and always volunteered to offer a hand, to anyone in need.
He enjoyed traveling with his spouse of 29 years, Joann Barron. They enjoyed visiting historical landmarks together. Recently, they went to the Oregon Coast and a month prior to Ray’s passing, visited the East Coast. Ray had many hobbies. Some included playing softball, bowling, camping, dancing and watching old westerns and the Pittsburgh Steelers on TV. Ray took pride in being a grandpa and enjoyed spending time with all of his grandchildren. He had many friends he considered family, a few to be mentioned are Ronnie Holmquist and Andy Jessop. He loved his softball family.
Ray is preceded in death by his infant daughter, Misty Michelle Stuart, and father, Larry Ernest Stuart. He is survived by his mother, Caroline Rall-Mendes, siblings Ruth Hyatt, Sherryl Burditt, Rodney Stuart, Clyde Trueax and Larry Stuart, his spouse, Joann Barron, children Joshua (Bre) Stuart, Rachel (Josh James) Stuart, Melinda (Chris) Crenshaw-Medlar, Amanda (Jeremy) Young, grandchildren Shaylynn Stuart, Andrew Olsen, Matthew Young, Brooklyn Czifro, Dalton Medlar and unborn grandson, Dawson Ray Stuart.
A Memorial Service will be held Friday, October 20, 2017 at 3 p.m. at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 117 Westbridge Road, Hamilton. Pastor Bill Whitney will be officiating. Military Honors will be presented immediately following the service. A private inurnment will be held at a later date.
The family greatly appreciates Dr. Archie and staff at Community Cancer Center for the extraordinary care that was provided to Ray. Now resting in God’s care, so dearly loved, so sadly missed. You will never be forgotten.
Brothers Mortuary and Crematory is honored to care for the family. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.