John Peter Ray

John Peter Ray, 82, of Scranton, formerly of Clarks Summit, passed away on Monday at Regional Hospital, Scranton.  His wife of over 55 years is the former Antoinette "Toni" Simens.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Peter James Ray and Edna E. Rafalko Ray. He was a 1958 graduate of Scranton Technical High School. Following high school, he proudly served in the United States Army, then returned to earn his Associate degree from Keystone College and his Bachelor of Science degree from Bloomsburg University. Prior to retirement, John was a teacher for 35 years at West Scranton Intermediate School. In addition, he enjoyed over 30 years as a bartender at the former Ryah House, also serving as Assistant Manager.

John will be remembered by many for his great sense of humor, his enjoyment of golfing and cuisine, and the love he had for all dogs, especially his dog, Chance. Those closest to him, though, will remember the devotion he showed to his wife and children and the love and admiration he carried for all of his grandchildren. "Papa" was a hero to them all.

Surviving are a daughter, Michele Dolaway and her husband John; sons John Ray and his wife Jill, and Peter Ray and his partner Megan Cerco; grandchildren Kiley, Emilia, and Madeline Dolaway, and Jackson Ray; and sister Louise Hoban.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Snows Church, 301 South State Street, Clarks Summit by Rev. Stephen Asomah, Assistant Pastor. Friends may pay their respects on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home, 418 S. State St., Clarks Summit.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105.