Joanne Ray, age 82, of Madison, Ohio passed away Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Lake West Hospital. She was born November 8, 1933 in Salem, Ohio, the daughter of Edwin and Sara Mae (Zimmerman) Probert. She married John “Johnny” F. Ray on May 22, 1954 in Salem, Ohio.
After her graduation from Salem High School in 1951, Joanne and her husband, Johnny Ray, decided to make Madison their home in 1963. They were the owners of Johnny Ray’s Radiator and Towing. She enjoyed antique cars and belonged to many clubs. Joanne also enjoyed being part of the Lake County Speedway family for many years and was also a member of Immaculate Conception Church in Madison.
She is survived by her furry companion, Miss Muffin; sons, Tom Ray of Denton, TX, Rick (Charlotte) Ray of Perry; daughter, Amy (Bob) Nye of Madison; daughter-in-law, Carol (Zip); grandchildren, Bobby (Mindy), Trisha, Tyler (Rachel), Morgan, Emily, Erica, Angela (T); 2 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, she was known as Mama Jo to many others.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Johnny Ray; her parents, Edwin and Sara Mae Probert; In-laws, Frank and Anne Ray; son, John “Zip” Ray; brother, Edwin “Bud” Probert.
Friends will be received 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, February 25, 2016 at The Behm Family Funeral Home, 26 River Street, Madison, Ohio. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 26, 2016 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 2846 Hubbard Road, Madison, Ohio. Rev. Sean Donnelly will be officiating. Final Resting Place will be Fairview Memorial Park in Madison.
Donations can be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, www.nationalmssociety.org/donate
Friends may leave condolences online at www.behmfuneral.com