Raymond Leon Metcalf, 94, of New Athens, IL, peacefully passed away Thursday, January 11, 2024, surrounded by his family at Memorial Hospital in Shiloh, IL. Born on September 11, 1929, to Lloyd and Mary (Baker) Metcalf, Ray’s life was a testament to dedication and love.  Ray was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in New Athens, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife of 59 years, Geneva (Brunk) Metcalf, three sisters, and two brothers, whose memories we hold dear.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Alvin (Nancy) Metcalf of New Athens, IL; two grandchildren, Amy (Keith) Abert and Jamie (Ed) Croak; and three great-grandchildren, Mitchell and Stella Abert, and Ryan Croak.

Ray will be dearly missed and remembered for his sense of humor, unwavering faith, profound love for family, and endless ability to haul in the biggest catch. May he rest in eternal peace, his legacy living on in the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness and warmth.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church in New Athens, IL. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family online at www.heilschuessler.com.

Visitation:  Friends and family are invited to pay their respects from 4 pm to 7:30 pm on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL. A memorial service will follow from 7:30 pm to 8 pm on the same day at the funeral home. Additional visitations will be held at McSpadden Funeral Home in Ellington, MO from 4 pm to 8 pm on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, and from 10 am to 1 pm and on Thursday, January 18, 2024.

Funeral:  Funeral services will be conducted at 1 pm on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at McSpadden Funeral Home in Ellington, MO. Following the service, Ray will be laid to rest at Redford Cemetery in Redford, MO.

Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL is in charge of local arrangements.  We gratefully acknowledge McSpadden Funeral Home in Ellington, MO for their contributions with the arrangements in Ellington, MO.

1. Randall Brunk says:

   01/16/2024 at 6:04 pm

   What a great uncle! He will be missed. R.I.P

   Reply
2. Bonnie Pratt says:

   01/15/2024 at 2:00 pm

   I’ve known Ray from as far back as I can remember. He always picked on me to get me all roweled up (I loved it) He was a blessing to our family. We all loved him very much. His love and care for my sister Geneva was amazing. Best brother-in-law ever!

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3. Rev. Scott Tyler says:

   01/14/2024 at 12:50 pm

   So blessed to know brother Ray. May Christ be praised, forevermore.

   Reply
   • Marilyn Hasty says:

     01/15/2024 at 12:18 pm

     My Uncle Ray was a jokester who loved teasing me. His loving caring heart will be missed by everyone who knew him..

     Reply