Raymond E. Knuth Jr., 82, of Austinburg, OH, passed away early Saturday morning, April 1, 2023 at his home while surrounded by his family. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on May 13, 1940 to the late Raymond E. and Gertrude M. (Martin) Knuth Jr. Ray is once again reunited with his loving wife of 57 years, MaryEllen, who died September 26, 2022.

He was a graduate of Ledgemont High School and retired as Lab Foreman after 29 years at Avery-Dennison.

Ray was a huge supporter of St. John High School. He led many fundraising events that helped the school remain open on two separate occasions. His hard work and efforts earned him the honor of being inducted into the St. John Hall of Fame in 2013.

He was an active member of Our Lady of the Sea Church while being a snow bird in New Smyrna Beach, Florida and when home, at Assumption Church in Geneva and Sacred Heart Church in Rock Creek, OH.

He also loved coaching basketball at Assumption School in Geneva. Ray was active in his community by serving as President and coach of the Austinburg Little League as well as coaching the Dolphins in Geneva Midget League Football. He also served as President of the Sea Woods Condo Board in New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Ray was a diehard Cleveland sports fan. He was able to see the Cleveland Browns win the Championship in 1964 and the Cleveland Cavaliers win theirs in 2016.

His greatest love though was always spending time with his grandchildren.

Ray will be greatly missed by: his children, Mark Knuth, Regina (Tim) Knuth-Morris, Matthew (Leslie) Knuth; grandchildren, Marissa Knuth, Dylan Knuth, Matthew Knuth Jr., Alex Knuth, Ally Morris, Aidan Morris, Kodi Speegle, Connor Speegle, Kieran Speegle, Ralph "Stevie" (Hayven) Coss III, Samantha DiTomaso; sister, Marie Garrison; nieces, Yvonne Johnston, Deanne (Danny) Bull; special caregiver, Lisa Grace, who has become like family, and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and wife, MaryEllen.

Family and friends will be received from 4:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M., Tuesday, April 4th, 2023 at Best Funeral Home, 3210 N. Main St., Rock Creek, OH 44084. A MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL WILL BE HELD AT 10:00 A.M., WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 2023, AT SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH, 3049 OH-45, ROCK CREEK, OH 44084 with Father David Bridling officiating. Ray's final resting place will be in Mechanicsville Cemetery, Austinburg, OH. Arrangements have been entrusted to Best Funeral Home, Rock Creek, OH. 440-563-0818. Online condolences may be sent at www.bestfunerals.com.