Raymond “Ray” Back

Raymond “Ray” Back, 84, of Frazeysburg, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Genesis Hospital.
Born on January 20, 1940, to Betty Goddard and Coleman Victor Back in Mansfield, Ohio. Ray was a one-of-a-kind man—a loving husband, a strong dad, a superhero grandpa, a caring great-grandpa, and a friend to all who knew him.
Ray was a devoted husband to Cheryl Back, his beloved wife of 62 years. Their love began with letters he wrote from basic training and grew into a lifelong bond that was the heart of our family.
Ray loved spending time with his family, especially playing Yahtzee around the kitchen table. He was also a dedicated fan at sporting events, always supporting the Tri-Valley Scotties and Johnstown Johnnies. Whether it was a Friday night football game, a Saturday at the softball field or a gymnastics meet, Ray could be found with a Pepsi and popcorn in hand, cheering on his grandkids. He also loved supporting Johnstown’s Big Red Band and enjoyed dancing to the beat of the percussion section. Ray was always the first to celebrate after a big win, and his home quickly became a favorite place for everyone to visit as he was known as “Grandpa Ray” to many.
He also cherished his mornings spent at Bobby’s Diner and McDonald’s with friends, and he looked forward to his winters in Florida, enjoying the sunshine and company of friends.
A veteran of both the Marine Corps and Army, Ray took great pride in his service and was always ready to help anyone in need. After his military service, he continued to serve as a first responder, holding positions as a Dresden Police Officer, an auxiliary Licking County Sheriff and a volunteer Frazeysburg Firefighter. One of his proudest moments was being named Grand Marshal of the Frazeysburg Homecoming, a testament to his dedication and love for his community.
Ray was a longtime member of the Community Bible Church and found great joy in singing hymns for all to enjoy. We find comfort knowing he is now singing with the angels and rejoicing with Jesus.
Ray lived his life with a heart full of love and a spirit that uplifted everyone around him. His signature saying, “Here We Go, Rippin’ & Tearin’,” was his way of embracing life with joy and enthusiasm. As we say our final earthly goodbyes, we hold onto the warmth and joy he brought into our lives and we look forward to our heavenly reunion.
Ray is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Back; three daughters, Jodi Back, Kathy (Jody) Williams, and Susan (Brian) Sterling; five grandchildren, Sydney (Kaden) Wortman, Jared Williams, Rylie Sterling (Cooper Cass), Cade Sterling, and Bailey Williams; two great-grandchildren, Vila and Colson Wortman; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty Goddard and Coleman Victor Back; and in-laws, Viola and Gilbert “Bert” Hardesty.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024 from 2:00-4:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm at Frazeysburg Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 110 W. 3rd Street.
A memorial service lead by Ray’s nephew, Rusty Hardesty and brother-in-law, Bud Hardesty, will take place on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Frazeysburg Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home beginning at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Frazeysburg Fire Department or the Community Bible Church.