Birth date: Mar 25, 1925 Death date: Jun 11, 2024
BOATMAN, Donald “Ray”, age 99, of Bellbrook, passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at his residence. Ray was born March 25, 1925, on Longview Dairy Farm in Greene County to Harry and Faith (Smart) Boatman. He graduated from Parker Read Obituary
I met Ray in Nov. of 2002 when I took what I thought was a temporary job delivering newspapers to pay off office equipment. Forgot to quit but am so glad because Ray & I became fast friends. We were close before his wife passed but afterwards my heart broke for how sad & lost he was. We talked whenever he caught me & I started asking him to breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Our conversations were diverse but always included Joan. Ray was so patient, smart, & kind & I doubt there will ever be another like him in my life. Rest my friend & rejoice in the reunion of your beautiful wife...
I used to see Ray every morning walking in the park in our neighborhood. We would always stop and chat. I learned about his career, his family and the loss of his beloved Joan. I have not seen Ray in while and wondered how he was doing. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing but what a wonderful and full life he lived. I wish we could all be so lucky. My thoughts and prayers are with his family but you can take solace in the fact that he is reunited with the love if his life, Joan. I bet he has a smile on his face right now while holding her hand!! Kevin
My 6-year-old daughter and I loved to stop to chat with Mr. Raymond at the cemetery. He deeply loved his wife and missed her greatly. We enjoyed hearing stories about his wife, family and career. We'll cherish our time we got to spend with him. He will be missed!
My dog and I walk through the cemetery most days to visit people, and we often saw Mr. Boatman visiting his wife. He would always wave to us, or honk if he passed by on his way there. I always enjoyed seeing him and saying hi, and I admired his dedication to visiting each day. What a wonderful testament to their love. I hope they are reunited, and they both rest easy. I'll be saying hi to them both on our walks now. Sending my best to the family at this time.
