Richard Raymond Denny (Ray)
April 15, 1940 - April 7, 2021

Richard "Ray" Raymond Denny, 80, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away April 7, 2021, after a short illness, at his home surrounded by family. Ray was born April 15, 1940, to Raymond and Oleta (Williams) Denny in Canon City, Colorado. He graduated from Eugene High School in Eugene, Oregon in 1958, where he was a State Champion wrestler.

After moving back to Colorado he completed cosmetology school and worked in the family owned beauty/barber shop. Ray moved to Joplin, Missouri in 1970, where he and his father ran and operated Ray's Clutch Repair for over 40 years.

In 1974, he met and fell in love with Carlene (Strong). They were married in 1975 where he gained two daughters. They later welcomed his beautiful daughter, Kim - his pride and joy.

Ray loved playing and watching all sports, especially when his children and grandchildren were playing. He also loved to bowl, was an avid golfer, enjoyed fishing, hunting and being outdoors. He and his family loved horses and participated in 4-H and horse shows. Ray and Carlene enjoyed square dancing and belonged to a local square dance club. But most of all, he loved being with his family and friends. After retiring he spent many days out on the golf course with his many wonderful friends.

Ray's surviving family members include wife, Carlene; daughters, Kim and Ray Maxwell, Carl Junction, Missouri, Teresa and Robert Rhodes, Galena, Kansas, and Chris and Dave Johnson, Saginaw, Missouri; six granddaughters, Breanna Maxwell, Cheyenne Murray, Jessie Miller, Melody Reed, Lilly Johnson and Rose Johnson; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Faye Vangilder; and brother, Don Denny. Ray was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Allen Denny.

Services will be Thursday, April 15, 2021, at Villa Heights Christian Church 2650 East 7th Street, Joplin, Missouri 64801. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 6:00 PM with the Memorial Service starting at 6:00 PM.