Elmer Ray Stroud passed into glory from Hospice House at the close of the day May 6, 2024, at the age of 95. He is now rejoicing in the company of his Savior Jesus Christ and his beloved wife Ruth. Ray was born September 12, 1928, in Girard, Kansas. He and his twin sister were the third and fourth of six children. His life was marked by love and commitment, especially to Ruth, the love of his life. Their story began in Alliance, Nebraska where Ray caught sight of Ruth Darlene Lawler at the local gas station where he worked. Their love story blossomed, and they were joined in marriage on October 18, 1949. They shared their love for 61 years until Ruth's passing on September 30, 2011.
Ray answered the call to serve his country entering the army on February 12, 1952. He left behind his loving wife and oldest daughter, Debbie, to join his fellow servicemen in the 145th Field Artillery Battalion on Heartbreak Ridge in Korea. He was officially separated from the Army on January 25, 1954. He later had the distinct honor of participating in the Inland Northwest Honor Flight to Washington DC in 2014.
Ray was a capable, skilled man who held various jobs before finding his calling at the Burlington Northern Railroad. The Stroud family relocated nine times before settling in Spokane in 1975. Ray continued working for the railroad until his retirement in 1983.
Ray and Ruth were active serving in churches wherever they lived. He was fond of fishing and they both enjoyed camping, traveling, spending time with their daughters and grandchildren, and enjoying the many friends they made wherever they lived. Ray enjoyed helping others and could build and repair almost anything. Being a skilled woodworker, he made hope chests and coffee tables for family members and was well known for making wooden clocks for family and friends.
Ray was a devoted father and husband. He was a pillar of strength and compassion for Ruth, caring for her with unwavering devotion until her last breath. He touched the lives of countless friends and neighbors who cherished him deeply and will forever feel the void left by his absence. May his memory be a blessing and may he rest in peace, reunited with his precious wife in the eternal embrace of their Lord.
Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ruth, his parents William McKinley Stroud and Edna Alice Mayfield, several siblings, and a host of dear close friends. Survivors include his daughters Debbie Eychner of Spokane, WA, and Sonia (Brian) Segraves of Waitsburg, WA, his grandchildren Shauna, Lizette (Travis), Amanda, and Jimmy (Rose), and many great grandchildren. He is also survived by two younger sisters, Shirley Jean Buckle of Girard, KS and Florence Ann Stroud of Hemet, CA.
Ray's viewing will be Tuesday, May 28, 2024, between 3-5 p.m. at Hazen and Jaeger, 1306 N. Pines Rd. in Spokane Valley. The graveside funeral is set for Wednesday, May 29th at 12:30 p.m. at Fairmount Memorial Park, 5200 W. Wellesley in Spokane. The church memorial service will be held Saturday, June 1st at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church, 6528 N. Monroe St. in Spokane.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Union Gospel Mission, 1224 E. Trent Ave. Spokane, WA.
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