Claude Ray

Cobleskill- Claude V. Ray, 84, of Barnerville Road, died Thursday, January 31, 2019 at Schenectady Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing in Schenectady.

Born September 12, 1934 in Cobleskill, he was the son of Charles and Bessie (Vroman) Ray.  Claude was a graduate of the former Cobleskill Central School, where he ran cross country, and later attended SUNY Cobleskill.

He enlisted in the United States Army in 1957 and proudly served his country until receiving an honorable discharge in 1958.  Claude worked along with his father on the railroad and then became a Technical Assistant for SUNY Cobleskill’s Athletic Dept.  Claude coached field hockey, the women’s basketball team and also the men.  Upon retirement, Claude began the famous  Ray’s BBQ, which aided so many organizations with fund raising.

He was an active member of the Barnerville United Methodist Church as well as various other non-for-profit organizations.  Claude enjoyed playing men's softball leagues, belonging to multiple teams and would travel to out of town games with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Vena (Russell) Ray, whom he married February 20, 1957; three sons:  M. Kevin (Marcia) Ray of Carlisle, Kent A. Ray (Cathi Hedman) of Cobleskill, and Kurt (Deborah) Ray of Clifton Park; his brother, Charles Ray of Schenectady; seven grandchildren:  Aaron and Jordan Ray, Marissa and Taylor Ray, Jessica Tartaglia, McKenzie Ray and Austin Becker; and one great-granddaughter, Josephine Vena Ray.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at Cobleskill United Methodist Church, 107 Chapel St., Cobleskill with Rev. Robin Ressler of the Barnerville United Methodist Church officiating.  Family and friends are also invited to a period of visitation to be held from 5 to 7 PM on Tues., February 5, 2019 at Mereness-Putnam Funeral Home, 171 Elm St., Cobleskill.  Spring interment with military honors will be in Lutheran Cemetery in Schoharie.

Memorial contributions may be made to Barnerville United Methodist Church, PO Box 184, Howes Cave, NY 12092.