Obituary of John L. Ray

Oneida-John L. Ray, a beacon of friendship and laughter, passed away Monday morning January 20, 2025 leaving behind a vast network of loved ones who will forever cherish the memories of his infectious spirit and character. 

   Born on March 17, 1951, there was no doubt that John got his kind smile from his father Reggie Ray and his quick-wittedness from mother Dottie (Wilkinson) Ray.  Being the middle child was a dubious job but John was up to it, frequently taking the blame so his older sister Debbie (the perfect one) and younger brother Doug (the baby) could shine.  The Rays had a very happy home on Allen St in Sherrill, especially the family dog who John secretly snuck liver and onions to under the dinner table.

  John was the proud owner and operator of Central Service in Oneida.  There he met the love of his life, Linda Geer, who was hoodwinked into marriage.  To his delight, it stuck and they shared a fifty-two-year bond together. 

  Much of John’s life was spent at a camp on Twitchell Lake in the Adirondacks with family and friends.  Camp was his paradise where he enjoyed hunting, preparing meals and watching everyone else cut wood.

  John never met someone he didn’t want to talk to and had numerous friends far and wide.  His stories had us either rolling our eyes or rolling on the floor laughing.  He loved gardening with Linda, watching NASCAR with daughter Megan, clambakes with son Brian, swimming with grandkids Gage, Scarlet, Stella and Bodhi and enjoying a cold Busch Light with just about anyone.

  Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at the Malecki Funeral Home Inc 464 Sherrill Rd, Sherrill NY.  Family and friends are invited to share stories and reminisce about the incredible person he was.

  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association in John’s memory.