Jan Ray

JAN LEE RAY, 63, of Arthur, IL passed away at 3:58 A.M. on Tuesday, January 1, 2013 at Mason Point in Sullivan, IL.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, January 4, 2013 at the Vine Street Christian Church, 249 South Vine Street in Arthur, IL. Rev. Dawn Ingram will officiate. Burial will be in the Arthur Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 3, 2013 at the Vine Street Christian Church in Arthur, IL. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements.

Jan was born on September 24, 1949 in Decatur, IL. He was a son of Willis “Dude” and Helen Jane (Piper) Ray. He married Margaret Alice Elder on July 17, 1970 in Sullivan, IL.

He is survived by his wife Alice Ray of Arthur, IL; one daughter, Janet Ray of Arthur, IL; three grandchildren, Madeline, Lauren and Vincent Ray and one brother, Jerry Ray and his wife Gwen of Arthur, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Jason Ray and his sister, Jackie Lauterjung.

Jan was a member of the Vine Street Christian Church and served as church elder and moderator. He was a member of the Arthur Masonic Lodge, and the Kaskaskia Country Club. He served on the Douglas County 911 Board; he has served as Bourbon TWP Supervisor, Arthur Chief of Police and as the Arthur Village Administrator for several years. Jan served the Arthur Volunteer Fire Department for over 40 years, having been a past chief and served as an Arthur Fire Protection District Trustee.

He was an avid promoter of the Arthur Athletics for several years. He coached many baseball teams, softball teams and football teams. Jan was the announcer of the home football games for several years.

Jan was considered to many as a pillar of the community. He always wanted the best for the Village of Arthur and was always willing to help out where ever he could. He had a love for the community like nobody did.

His greatest joy was spending time with his family especially his grandchildren, friends, and cheering for his beloved Cubs and Illini.
Memorials may be made to the Vine Street Christian Church.