Obituary of James S. Ray

Mr. James S. Ray, 60, of Gloversville, died suddenly March 19, 2007 after being stricken. Mr. Ray was born in Gloversville on February 16, 1947, son of the late Robert and Mildred Hart Ray. He was educated in Mayfield schools. Jim enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1967 and served his country during two tours of duty in Vietnam. He received many commendations and medals including the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts for injuries received during battle. Upon discharge, he worked for area contractors, most notably Ed Henry Decorating, before beginning his own painting contracting business. He retired several years ago due to ill health. A devoted veteran, Jim was a long time member of various veteran groups. He was a life member and past Commander of the VFW Post 2077, where he headed the honor guard firing squad for many years, providing area veterans a well deserved tribute. He was also a long time member of the American Legion in Gloversville, where he also served as past Commander, the D.A.V. and Vietnam Veterans of America. He is survived by his daughters, Bobbi-Jean Mauceri of Amsterdam and Stacy Rulison of Gloversville; a brother; Robert Ray of Arizona and grandchildren, Shelbi Mauceri, Jake Mauceri, Ian Fitzpatrick and several other grandchildren. Additional survivors include his longtime companion Sandra Lyons of Gloversville; his step-children, Glenn, Stephen, Randy and Christopher Lyons, Laura Lander and Jami Mills, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by a son, James S. Ray, Jr., and a brother, Jon Ray. A graveside service with military honors will be held 11 am Thursday at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. The family will receive friends Wednesday at the Kobuskie-Konik Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville from 4-7 pm. Expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 7 Washington Square, Albany New York 12205.