Ned Ray

Ned L. Ray, 95, of Decatur, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at his residence.

He was born on November 22, 1929, in Pleasant Mills, Indiana, to the late Leland and Eithel (Laughrey) Ray. He married Margaret Taylor on August 22, 1953, in Dupont, Ohio, and she preceded him in death on August 3, 2017.

Ned honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and was stationed in Germany.

Ned had a diverse career, retiring as an iron worker from Gilpin, Inc. in Decatur. He also worked as a truck driver, rancher, and carpenter.

A true enthusiast of the open road, Ned was an avid motorcycle rider and a proud member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association and the American Motorcycle Association. Alongside his wife, Margaret, he embarked on incredible journeys, visiting each of the lower 48 states at least twice since 1978, logging over 600,000 miles together. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #43 in Decatur.

Ned is survived by his daughter, Denise (Thomas) Laws of Lafayette, Indiana; son, Robin (Roxanne) Ray of Decatur, Indiana; son, Tobin (Nancy) Ray of Decatur, Indiana; 12 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

In addition to his wife, Ned was preceded in death by a grandchild, his brother, George Ray, and his sister, Geraldine Jones.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur, Indiana, with Celebrant Molly Farthing officiating. Military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #43 in conjunction with the United States Army. Burial will follow at Tricker Cemetery in Monroe, Indiana.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph's Indian School or St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Arrangements by Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes of Decatur, Indiana