Joplin - Mendon Ray born July 4th, 1937, in Lebanon, OK, died on March 7, 2026, in Joplin, MO at age 88 years. Mendon married Bertha Jo Wright on February 15, 1958. Mendon "Tom" precedes in death his wife Jo Ray. Daughter Deanna M. (Ray), and spouse Tim Brix, grandchildren Bailey and Caleb Brix and great grandchildren Nolan and Elijah Brix. Son Thomas Joseph Ray and spouse Sharin (Williamson) grandchildren Marc, Rose, Wolfgang and Sebastian Ray.

Memorial Services for Mendon Ray will be May 15, 2026, at 1:00PM, Saint Paul's United Methodist Church 2423 W. 26th St., Joplin, MO 64804. Please watch the Ozark Memorial Website for the full Obituary, and Instructions for participating via online live streaming for remote viewing of the service.

The family welcomes your stories and recipes from "Tom's" era 1937-2026. We invite you to join us as we remember and celebrate a great man who walked with a tender heart. Your love and support bolsters and encourages us in this challenging time. We share our hearts with you and hope you Walk in Beauty today and always.