The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Lindy Harold Ray, 94, joined his beloved wife in heaven June 12, 2023 - on his youngest daughter’s birthday. He was born July 9, 1928 to Oscar (Doc) and Verla Flynn Ray. He was the 12th child in a blended family.

Lindy attended country school for 4 years then went to school in Big Sandy graduating in 1948. He excelled in all athletics. He was chosen to play in the East-West Shrine football game the year he graduated-the first from Big Sandy to be chosen.

In 1951he married Ilene Bobbe, a local school teacher. In January of 1952 he was drafted into the Army. He served in the U.S. and Korea. When he came home they moved onto the family farm near Loma. They purchased the home in 1956 and bought land quarter by quarter. They were blessed with 3 daughters: Linda, Nancy and Lisa. They in turn gave them 9 grandchildren whom he enjoyed.

Dad loved football. He was a referee for many years for football and basketball. He bowled, drove school bus and held many jobs to supplement his farm income. Everyone enjoyed being around him. He had the best smile and positive attitude. In their later years Mom and Dad enjoyed playing the machines at Northern Winz. It was a fun way to spend the afternoon. He lived with Lisa and Roger in Cut Bank for 2 ½ years after Mom died. The last 2 ½ years were spend with Linda and Walt with Walt being his main caregiver. Nancy visited often and took him big Sandy many weekends. He loved having 4 of his greatgrandchildren close by. They brought him much love, many smiles, hugs and antics to keep him smiling.

Lindy was a 50 year member of Treasure Lodge #95, Scottish Rite, Algeria Shriners and Havre Elks Lodge #1201. He was also past president of VFW Post 6107 and a member of the Big Sandy Senior Citizens and the Historical Society of Big Sandy.

Survivors are his 3 daughters Linda (Walt Scotson), Nancy and Lisa (Roger Sammons), 9 grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, his parents, his 11 siblings and a greatgrandchild.