Raymond R. Anthony

Raymond R. Anthony, 61 of Fairbury died February 12, 2015 at his home. He was born to LeRoy Raymond and Daisy May (Robinson) July 25, 1953 in Lincoln, Nebraska.
He was known to his family as “Ray”. To others Ray “man”
Married once, but divorced.

Collected ceramic bald eagles, showing his love for his country, as at the age of 18, was drafted, serving from 1970-1972 in Viet Nam. He was a Medic and a cook while serving his country. He was very proud of his cooking.

Upon returning to the States, Ray had to sneak out of the airport because of the shouting of the protesters at the Airport.
He lived in Mississippi and Louisiana. He loved Cajun music and Cajun food. And he loved his music loud. While in Mississippi, he met a wonderful African American woman, who he called “Mammie”, as she was like a mother to him.

While in Louisiana, his kind hearted personality showed through, as he helped feed the homeless, with food that large grocery stores had thrown away and with blankets. He was the type of guy that would give even if it meant that he would go without.
He also lived in Washington and Oregon, where he worked on the Burlington Railroad, also working with slate and roofing.
Ray loved telling jokes, and loved to tease, as he loved people. Kind-hearted; but spoke his mind.
He was very proud of his Grandchildren and cherished their visits.

Of the many television programs, Ray loved Mississippi Man, Pawn Stars, Duck Dynasty, as Ray resembled Si, and American Pickers.
Of all the different places Ray lived, he called Fairbury, Nebraska his home of over 20 years and his final request was granted as he passed away in his little house on Lindell Street on Tuesday, February 12th.

Survivors are son Raymond (Irene) Robert Sound Sleeper of Allen, SD, sisters Pam (Steve) Langston, and Cheryl (Joe) Swartz of Lincoln, NE, brothers Jack (Suzy) Anthony of Portland OR, Tom (Diana) Anthony of Lincoln, NE, and Doug Anthony of Clarkston, WA, 7 Grandchildren and 4 Great-Grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Calvin, Bill, Dick, and Gary, and sister Glenda.

Services will be Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Gerdes-Meyer Chapel in Fairbury with Darlene Novotny officiating. Burial of cremains will be in the Fairbury Cemetery, with memorials going to the Family’s Choice. Military Rites by Fairbury VFW.