Raymond George Thompson Sr., 81, passed away Oct. 20, 2025.

Ray was born in Canton on June 25, 1944, to his late parents, George and Pearl (Hamberg) Thompson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn (Eberly) Thompson, and sister, Barb Medved.

Ray was a 43-year employee of TRW/PCC Airfoils in Minerva. He honorably served as a police officer in Waynesburg from 1975 to 1985. He stayed active in several beloved organizations.

Ray was a proud Army veteran and a 36-year member of the American Legion Sandy Valley Post 432. He was passionate about his favorite pastimes, trap shooting and sporting clays, and was a longtime member of Brown Township and Mud Run Sportsman clubs. Ray was a longtime participant—more than 30 years—in the Great Trail Rendezvous and Festival. He was dedicated to teaching future generations gun safety and appreciation through his volunteer work that began in 1992 with the Carroll County Sharp Shooters 4-H Club and his lifetime membership in the NRA.

Ray is survived by his loving family: children, Ray Jr. (Sheri) Thompson, Lisa (Jeff) McKown and Vincent Thompson; six grandchildren, Reed Thompson, Alaina (Philip) Blackburn, Adrianna and Sophia Thompson, Joe (Chrissy) Davis and Raye-Ann (Harley) Essex; four great-grandchildren, Jethro, Jericho and Kinsley Davis, and Ilah Blackburn; and his sister, Shirley Osborn.

Calling hours will be held at Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 10 to 11 a.m., with funeral services at 11 a.m.

Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Malvern.

Those unable to attend may share condolences in the online guest book at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sandy Valley American Legion, 113 Hemlock Ave., Waynesburg, OH 44688-9335, or the Carroll County Sharp Shooters 4-H Club, 1400 Nova Rd., Mechanicstown, OH 44651.