Obituary of Ray Osborne

Ray Osborne was born in Middlesboro, Kentucky on September 24, 1930. He was the son of the late Alfred Osborne and the late Pearlie (Yeary) Osborne. Ray married the former Beulah Yeary on October 8, 1949 in Angola, Indiana. From this union came the birth of four children. Ray was a longtime member of the Dundee and Carleton Assembly of God Church's. He was active at both congregations serving in many capacities and on numerous boards. For several years he and Beulah had pastored the Fruitport Assembly of God in Northern Michigan. After moving back to Monroe, Ray took employment with Monroe Public Schools as a janitor retiring in 1992 after twelve years of service. Ray loved the outdoors, and enjoyed small game hunting. He was a hard worker enjoying yard work such as trimming trees, gardening, and mowing the lawn which he did for many neighbors. Ray was well known for his appetite, in fact, he was a food connoisseur especially enjoying sandwiches and sweets. He liked to take long naps and have in depth conversations. Ray always carried tools, appreciated a smooth running car, and enjoyed time with his friend Stan. Ray Osborne age 82 of Monroe passed away at 1:35am, Sunday, December 23, 2012. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by wife: Beulah on March 21, 2011; two infant siblings, brother-in-law: Gerald Laginess, sister: Barbara Bryant; and former daughter-in-law: Karin Osborne. To cherish his memory he leaves four children: William (Deborah) Osborne of Flat Rock, Dale (Pam) Osborne of Willis, Dennis Osborne of Monroe, and Gloria Osborne of Grand Rapids; three sisters: Lillian (Coolidge) Ellison of Carleton, Mary Laginess of Monroe, and Ruth (Robert) Eslar of Taylor; thirteen grandchildren: Bryan, Jeffrey, Steven, Gregory, Eric, Matthew, Jennifer, Melissa, Ryan, April, Garrett, Kristine, and Jeremy; sixteen great grandchildren; and best friend: Stanley Mazur of Monroe. Friends may gather from 4:00-8:00pm, Thursday, December 27, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am, Friday, December 28 also at Merkle's. The Reverend Rick Massingill pastor of North Monroe Street Church of God will officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park for burial. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to David Wilkerson's World Challenge. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.