Everett J. Ray, 83, of Hermitage, MO, formerly of Levittown, passed away on June 2, 2005 at the Christian Health Care Center in Hermitage. He was born in Hickory County, MO on Sept. 22, 1921, the son of Farris and Nona Coon Ray. He grew up in Hickory County and graduated from Cross Timbers High School.

He enlisted into the US Navy and served overseas in the Europe Theatre during WWII. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the states and on Aug. 5, 1945 was united in marriage to Katherine L. Hageney. They made their home in the Bronx moving to LI in 1949. For a short time, Everett was employed as a bowhook operator on the Governor's Island ferry.

In 1978, they moved to Independence, MO, and he continued his work as a body and fender man for Kansas City Auto Painting Company and several other companies. For the past three years, he and his wife, Katherine, have been residents of the Christian Health Care Center.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Stanley Ray. Surviving are his wife, Katherine of Hermitage; two sons, James Ray of Kansas City, MO, and Dr. Thomas Ray of Huntsville, OH; two grandchildren, Stephanie Cortes and Jayme Ray; a brother Bernie Ray of Cross Timbers, MO; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Arrangements were made by the Reser Funeral Home, Warsaw, MO. A family visitation was held on June 9. Graveside services and military honors were held at Bethel Campground Cemetery near Edwards, MO.