Charles L. Ray Sr.

Charles L. Ray Sr., 89, of Camargo passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Newman Rehab and Health Care Center in Newman, IL.

Charles was born on March 22, 1936 in Camargo to Lewis and Flossie (Wells) Ray.  He married Maxine Dukeman on July 14, 1956 in Charleston, IL; she survives.

He is also survived by his son, Charles Ray Jr.; grandchildren, Joshua, Amy, Coty, and Keera; five great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Carolyn Kappes; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and five siblings, Roy Ray, Betty Croy, Claude Ray, Floyd Ray, and Dale Ray; and a great-granddaughter, Hannah Jennings.

Charles was a hard worker and held many jobs through his life. He ran a gas station in Charleston for many years, was a truck driver and a semi mechanic, and was a hired hand for a farmer in Fairgrange, IL for several years.  He also was an avid fisherman and enjoyed going camping with his family. 

A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2025 with a funeral beginning at 12 p.m. at the Joines Funeral Home in Villa Grove.  Burial will follow at the Camargo Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital.

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