Norman Ray Stroud went to meet his heavenly Father on June 15, 2020. Born February 17, 1943, he grew up in Fort Smith, a 1961 graduate of Northside High School, attended Oklahoma State University and Henderson State College, and served six years in the 188th Fighter Wing of the Arkansas Air National Guard from 1968-1974.
Ray spent 16 years with the Kroger Co., progressing up the corporate ladder from sacker to store manager. At different times, he managed Kroger stores in Fort Smith, Fayetteville and Little Rock. In 1976 he decided to become a co-owner of Mr. Rob’s Cleaners and Laundry and grew the business to include five stores in Fort Smith, two in Van Buren and one in Greenwood. In 1993 he became a joint owner with his sister Beverly Cates. He sold the business last year and was enjoying retirement. He was an avid classic car buff, had owned several and had attended classic car shows all over the USA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Buell “Red” and Jean Stroud. Survivors include his sister, Beverly and her husband Lt. Col. Bob Cates USAF (Ret.) of Ft. Smith; a niece, Krista and husband Ron Howard of Roland; two nephews, Robert and wife Renee Cates of Ft. Smith and Bryan Cates of Ozark; great nieces, Eaven Ward and Kylie Howard; great nephew, Colton Howard; his two dogs, Bo and Sissy; and several relatives and friends.
Honorary pallbearers are Gary Don Knight, Larry White, Don Tankersley, Dwaine Shepherd, Jeff Daniels and Bob Cates.
Viewing will be Thursday, June 18, 2020 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Edwards Funeral Home. Private services and burial will be held at Forest Park Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to Kitties & Kanines, 4900 Rogers Ave. #100A, Ft. Smith, AR 72903. Online condolences may be made at www.edwardsfuneralhome.com
