Joseph ''Sonny'' Ray

Joseph ''Sonny'' Ray, 64, of Dover died Monday, February 12, 2001 at his home following a brief illness.

He retired in March of 1999 from old Republic Steel in Massillon after more than 42 years of service.

Born July 19, 1936 in Canton he was a son of Erma Patton Ray of Dover and the late John Henry Ray.

He was a member of First Christian Church in Dover, Steelworkers Union 1124, 4-H and was an Army Veteran. In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking and raising cattle.

Joseph is survived by his wife Deanna ''Dee'' Slutz Ray with whom he celebrated 41 years of marriage on June 14, 2000.

He is also survived by two daughters: Anna Lee and Steve Lopresti of East Sparta
Marlene Carol and Ryan Dunn of Dover

Brother: Roger and Sandy Ray of Dover

Sister: Betty Ann and Jim Huff of Dover

Two grandchildren: Roxanne Nicole and Kyle Ross Dunn

Aunt: Vemba ''Pat'' Breniser

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 16, 2001 at 11:00 am in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home at Dover with Kenard Parrott and Don Campbell officiating. Interment will be at the Dover Burial Park. Friends may call in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home on Thursday from 2-4 & 6-8 pm. Those wishing to express their fondest memories of Joseph may do so by visiting the ''on-line obituaries'' link on the funeral homes website at www.tolandherzig.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Tuscarawas County or to the American Cancer Society.

Toland-Herzig, Dover
330-343-6132