Robert Lee Ray

ROBERT RAY

JERSEYVILLE - Robert Lee Ray, 75, of Jerseyville, passed away suddenly at 8:13 p.m., Sunday, April 12, 2026 at his home.

He was born on May 25, 1950 in Carrollton, Illinois, one of three children born to the late Robert V. and Gloria (Wallendorf) Ray. He was raised in Jersey County and graduated with the Class of 1968 from Jersey Community High School, later continuing his education at Southern Illinois University–Carbondale, where he studied automotive technology.

Bob married the former Lynda Young on January 19, 1974 at Hope Lutheran Church in Jerseyville, and together they built a life rooted in family, hard work and the land. Their marriage was blessed with two children, and in time, grandchildren and a great-grandchild who became the center of his world.

He began his working career at Grafton Boat Works and went on to spend nearly 40 years as a millwright with Labor Local #377, earning the respect of those he worked alongside through his strong work ethic and steady, reliable nature. In addition to his trade, Bob was a lifelong farmer. He learned the values of farming from his uncle, Dick Gabbett, who entrusted him with the land that Bob would continue to care for and cultivate for years to come. He took pride in raising livestock, working the ground, and sharing that way of life with his family.

Bob truly embraced farm life in every sense of the word. Whether he was out in the fields, working in the shop, or simply enjoying the quiet rhythm of the land, it was where he felt most at home. He also enjoyed drag racing, classic cars, and spending time in the shop with his son and friends, where stories were shared as often as tools.

A man of routine and connection, Bob was a familiar face around town. He started his mornings with the “Breakfast Club” at Harvest Home and could be counted on for lunch at 11 a.m. sharp at Lake Westside. Those daily traditions were more than just meals, they were moments of friendship, laughter and community that meant a great deal to him.

Above all else, Bob was a family man. He was deeply proud of his children and never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren, attending their events and speaking of them with genuine pride to anyone who would listen. His love for his family was steady and unwavering, reflected in both the life he built and the example he set.

He will be remembered as a generous and down-to-earth man, a good country boy who was hardworking, honest, and dependable. He lived simply, loved deeply, and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Lynda Ray of Jerseyville; a daughter and son-in-law, Kristy and Todd Wellhausen of Farmersville; a son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Joanna Ray of Jerseyville; six grandchildren, Cody Wellhausen of Girard, Macy Wellhausen of Jerseyville and Baylee, Andrew, Garrett and Claire Ray, all of Jerseyville; a great-granddaughter, Meadow Wellhausen; a sister and brother-in-law, Lori and Leon Stone, Jr. of Alton; and a brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Joan Ray of Fieldon.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his uncle, Dick Gabbett.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, April 17, 2026 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville.

Graveside services and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given to the Jersey Community High School Woods and Auto programs, in care of the funeral home.

Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com

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