Joseph Ray Medlen, 83, of Kokomo, passed away 12:35 pm Friday September 6, 2024, at Primrose Retirement Community in Kokomo.
He was born in White County, Arkansas, on October 7, 1940, the son of the late Edgar Lee and Florence (Ferren) Medlen. He was married to Dorothy, and she preceded him in death on October 19, 2022.
Ray was a 1958 graduate of Clay Township High School in Miami County. He retired from Delco Electronics as a supervisor after 30 years of service. He proudly served our country in the United States Army and earned a Sharpshooter badge. His favorite hobbies were hunting, fishing, and traveling. Ray had a soft spot for animals, but especially for his dogs that he rescued from the humane society.
Ray is survived by his daughters, Lisa (William) Stafford, Teresa (Brad) Wertz; grandchildren, Chelsea (Ryan) Mey, Eliza (Jacob) Barkley, Ariel Simpson, Brant (Haley) Reef, Colin McBride; great-grandchildren, Alaira Reef, Cecilia Simpson, Rowan Mey; brother, Clarence (Sharon) Medlen; sister-in-law, Linda Medlen; nieces, Stacia Brandenburg, Sharon Hawkins; nephews, Jeff Medlen, Greg Medlen, Jacob Medlen; and dear friend, Steve Fischer.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Edward Lee (Marie) Medlen, Rex Paul Medlen; and wife, Dorothy.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 am to 1 pm Wednesday September 11, 2024, at One Church, 2734 S. Washington St., Kokomo, IN 46902.
Funeral service will begin at 1 pm on Wednesday at the church with Pastor Tim Gates officiating.
Entombment will follow in Sunset Memory Garden.
Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team.
Contributions may be made in Ray’s memory to the Kokomo Humane Society.
Shirley & Stout Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
