Obituary of Jack W. Ray, Jr.

RAY - Jack Walter, Jr., passed away December 8, 2020 just a week shy of his 72nd birthday at the Cambria Care Center. He passed quickly and mercifully after years of declining health. He will joyously reunite with his beloved wife Barbara J. Ray (Palko). Together they leave behind a daughter Jennifer L. Ray, her husband Nicholas Wilson, and step-daughter Danielle Dunigan. Jack was born in the basement of a small hospital in Johnstown and raised in Nanty Glo. He was the oldest of three, born to Jack W. Ray and Constance (Connie) Ray (Johnson). He is preceded in death by his wife, his father, and his grandparents. He is survived by his mother Connie, and his sisters Cathy Sekerak and Susan Gore, as well as his many nieces and nephews. He always said he loved Barbara from the time they were small children playing cops and robbers. They eventually started dating in high school and continued after graduation. He often borrowed his parents' car to visit Barbara at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He once fell asleep at the wheel, but miraculously survived with a nasty bump on his head. Jack loved history, and more than anything he loved to talk. He was able to carry on conversations on anything with anyone. He often took us to Gettysburg and other Civil War battle sites setting the scene, bringing the history alive. Growing up, he and my mother were highly involved with the Knights of Columbus. They made many friends within the organization. They also made it a point to bring me along to many of their functions. What kid would say no to staying at a hotel for a weekend, while their parents socialized? I thought it was awesome! When I was very little, Dad often made me pancakes in the shape of cartoon characters like Mickey Mouse or Snoopy. He used chocolate chips for the eyes. We also shared a love of science fiction and horror movies, that my mother couldn't stand. Incredibly he let me stay up late to watch the movie Alien when I was seven. Though he didn't often show it, he had a huge heart for animals, especially dogs and cats. Those are the pieces of my father that I carry with me. Susan Gore and I offer our gratitude to the entire staff of the Fourth Floor at the Cambria Care Center. They took excellent care of him over the years. We would also like to thank Paula for always being there for him. Due to COVID-19 health concerns at this time, services are private. A small memorial will be held at a future date. Arrangements are in care of the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Nanty Glo.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Jack’s memory to the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be left for the family at www. askew-houser.com