Lawrence George Ray, Jr., age 86, of Leesburg, Florida, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026. He was born on February 2, 1940, in Liberty, Indiana, to the late Lawrence George Ray, Sr. and Cora Lee (Shifflet) Ray.
Mr. Ray dedicated many years of his professional life working as a boiler operator, a role in which he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, carrying with him the values of service and commitment throughout his life. In 1977, he made the move to Leesburg, Florida, where he would reside for nearly five decades, building a life surrounded by family and friends.
He is lovingly remembered by his son, Lawrence Wayne Ray and his wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Regina Ray-Bushee and her husband, Gerald; his brother, John Ray; and his sisters, Edna Garrett, Lillian Spencer, Ruth Ray, and Joanee Rynearson. He also leaves behind a cherished legacy through his grandchildren, Megan Mannino, Martha Sheffield, and Kiersten Ray, as well as his great-grandchildren, Knox Sheffield, Kyn Lea Sheffield, and Everlea Mannino.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Calvary Baptist Church on Eagles Nest Road in Fruitland Park, Florida, on July 8, 2026. Visitation will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.
Inurnment will take place at Lakeside Memory Gardens in Eustis, Florida.
Lawrence will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and the quiet strength and kindness he showed to those who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.