Raymond Gillenwater Jr.

Raymond Gillenwater Jr., 77, passed away on September 9, 2024. He was born on August 14, 1947, to Raymond Sr. and Bertha (Bowman) Gillenwater. He graduated from Marion Franklin High School as part of the class of 1965. After school, Raymond enlisted in the United States Navy. During his time in the Navy, he was stationed between Pensacola, Guam, the Philippines, and outside of Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1970. He was awarded the US Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation. After serving, Raymond spent his career as a Project Manager for CED. He was also a member of American Legion Post 144.

Raymond will be remembered as a strong, confident man who was a leader, coach, and mentor to many. He loved the game of baseball. An outdoorsman, he spent much of his time hunting and fishing. Above all, he was a loving and devoted husband to his wife of 58 years, Emily, a wonderful father and grandfather, and will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched.

Raymond is preceded in death by his parents; his sister Paula Kay Gillenwater; and his stepmother Naomi Gillenwater.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Emily (Sommer) Gillenwater; his sons Shawn (Cheri) Gillenwater and Troy Gillenwater; his daughter Amanda (Robert) Urban; grandchildren Jesse Gillenwater, Madeline Gillenwater, Sam Keeling, Makayla Gillenwater, Austin Gillenwater, Avery Urban, Hanna Urban, and Kennedy Urban; and his sister, Suzanne (Mike) Cook.

At this time, no public services have been planned. Family will hold a Celebration of Raymond’s life at a later date.

Family would like to extend a Special Thank-You to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Chillicothe VA for their kindness and care.

In lieu of flowers, loved ones may donate to the Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org) in Raymond’s memory.