Raymond Robert Gross

Illinois was just the starting point of Ray’s journey. His family made moves to Arkansas, California, Texas, back to Illinois, and then back to Arkansas. Fort Smith and Barling, Arkansas are the places he called home for the last 47 years. Ray attended Chaffin Junior High and then Fort Smith, Northside High School where he served as a manager for the Grizzlies football team. He then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing from the University of the Ozarks. While in school, Ray made numerous life long friends as they experienced life and all that it has to offer to the young and adventurous. This would be especially true of Ray’s buddies calling him “Ike” and themselves “Ike’s Army.”

The majority of Ray’s work-life , he relished and flourished working side-by-side with his father in the business of constructing steel buildings. Eventually Ray assumed management responsibilities - a credit to his work ethic and professionalism.

Ray’s ability to connect and engage with family, friends, business associates, acquaintances, and even strangers are a testament to his character. First and foremost, Ray could be described as a devoted Man of God (a member of First Baptist Church in Barling). Ray might also be described as hard-working, smart, humble, loyal, and willing to help anyone with anything as long as he could act with integrity. Anyone knowing Ray could tell you that he was a man of integrity, but he was also fun-loving and liked to find a way to insert a bit of humor with a “corny” joke or just a comment, a smile, and a slight tilt of the head.

Ray was a sports enthusiast, greatly enjoying watching all kinds of competitions. He especially liked to support the Razorbacks and was a true Chicago Cubs fan who relished the 2016 World Series. Ray was someone who enjoyed fitness activities, regularly working out at the gym.

Additionally, Ray enjoyed time with the many dogs that he adopted over the years - most recently Willy and Molly.

Ray is survived by his father, Raymond Frank Gross, Mary Bridges Gross, twin sisters, Diane Gross, Donna Gross Palfrey, a number of aunts, uncles, and cousins and his dachshunds Willy and Molly.

Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Jean Neumann Gross and brother, John Gross.

Raymond “Butch” was a son, brother, and friend who enjoyed life. Gone too soon - leaving a void in many of our lives. Butch would suggest we celebrate the memories and spirit he leaves with us.