Thomas B. Ray

Thomas B. Ray, age 92, of Pittsfield, IL passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. He was born November 24, 1933, in Cooperstown, IL to Bowe and Alice Fitzsimons Ray.

Tom grew up in Brown County and attended grade school and high school at Saint Mary’s in Mt. Sterling. He graduated from Western Illinois University in Macomb. Tom enlisted in the United States Army in February 1955 and served as a radio operator until his honorable discharge in February 1957. Mr. Ray began his career at Pikeland Unit #10 in 1959, serving as an English teacher and coach. Throughout the years he continued to be a valued and respected member of the staff utilizing his skills as a Dean of Students and beloved Assistant Principal until his retirement in 1992. After retirement, he continued to grace the halls as a substitute teacher, and he was honored with induction into the 2024-2025 Saukee Hall of Fame as an educator. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and hunting, was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, took pleasure walking and spending time having lunch with friends.

Tom is survived by sister, Alice J. Wegs of Quincy, IL; and nieces and nephew, Christine Morris, Diane (Jeff) Genenbacher, Daniel (Janelle) Wegs, and Sandra (Brendon) Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bowe and Alice Ray; and brother-in-law, Lyle F. Wegs.

Mass of Resurrection will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, May 7, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pittsfield. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Interment will follow the service at Mt. Sterling Catholic Cemetery in Mt. Sterling, IL. Memorials are suggested to be made to Knights of Columbus or Saint Mary’s School in Mt. Sterling. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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