Ray Coley

Ray Coley, 83, of Monett, passed away June 22, 2019, in Ft. Smith, Ark.
He was born on July 2, 1935 in Altus, Ark., to the late William and Nellie (Little) Coley. Coley graduated from Wister High School, in Wister, Okla., with the class of 1954. He then served his country in the United States Air Force from 1954-58. After returning from his duties  he furthered his education at Poteau Community College, in Poteau, Okla., obtaining his associate of arts degree in 1960 and then his bachelor’s of science in education degree from Southeastern State College, Durant, Okla. in 1962. Coley began teaching sixth grade in Pierce City that same year. He later taught at Camdenton, Jasper and retired from Jane. During his years in education, he also coached boy’s basketball. Following his retirement, he worked part-time as a Courier for First State Bank of Purdy.  
Coley was a member of New Site Baptist Church in Monett and the Missouri State Teachers Association. He enjoyed painting, listening to gospel and country music, gardening, taking care of his yard, watching basketball, eating ice cream and spending time with his friends at McDonald’s. In 1959, he married Rene Newby. They were blessed with two children and shared over 57 years together until her passing in 2017.
Coley is survived by: son, Kevin (Kara) Coley of Monett; daughter, Sheila (David) Buck of Verona; twin brother, Ralph  (Regina) Coley of Readyville, Tenn.; sister, LaJean Kay, of Scottsdale, Ariz.; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife; and  brothers, Roger and Aaron Hugh Coley.
Funeral services were held June 29, 2019 at New Site Baptist Church. Interment and military honors followed at Oakdale Cemetery in Monett. Memorials may be made to New Site Baptist Church in care of the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home.