Jeffery A. Ray, 44, 324 S. Wayne St., St. Marys, died at 2:15 a.m. Nov. 2, 2007, at Ohio State University Hospital, Columbus. Death was due to cancer.

He was born May 9, 1963, in St. Marys, to Neal Ray Sr. and Phyllis Steinke Ward. His father survives in New Knoxville and his mother and stepfather, Hasroe Ward, survive in Wapakoneta.

Survivors are a son, Jacob, and a daughter, Ashley M., both at home; the children's mother, Donna; five brothers, Michael (Fran), Tarpon Springs, Fla., Dennis (Lynne), Celina, Bill, Wapakoneta, and James (DeeDee) and Neal Jr. (Jessica), all of St. Marys.

He was the owner of Grand Carriage II and in 1984 had founded Ray's Recycling, both in St. Marys. He was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church, Burkettsville, and a 1981 graduate of New Knoxville High School.

Services are 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Miller Funeral Home, St. Marys, the Rev. Tony Fortman officiating. Burial is at St. Wendelin Cemetery.

Calling is 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Contributions can be made to the Auglaize County unit of the American Cancer Association.