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<img class="size-medium wp-image-1564825" src="http://www.dailyjournal.net/wp-content/files/sites/9/2021/01/webPhoto735481.jpg" alt="Ernest Ray Kegley" width="240" /><img class="size-full wp-image-1564825" src="http://www.dailyjournal.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2018/04/americanflag.jpg" alt="emblem" />Ernest Ray Kegley
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FRANKLIN, IN.
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Ernest Ray Kegley, 83, passed away on Monday, January 18, 2021 at his home in Franklin, IN with his loving family by his side. Ray was born on August 14, 1937 in Johnson County, Indiana to the late Wilbert Lewis Kegley and Chelsie Dolores (Julian) Linzie. At 11 years old, Ray met Virginia Ann Magill, whom he would grow up to marry and love for 57 years. They wed on January 20, 1957 at Community Congregational Church in Franklin. She preceded Ray in death in 2014. He married Jan (Bass) Backmeyer on September 3, 2016 and had 4 wonderful years with her. She survives. Ray was the father of two daughters, RaeAnne Tyra (David) of Linton, Indiana and Teresa Lynn Forbes (Cameron) of Franklin. He was grandfather to four: Joshua Tyra of Chicago, Amy Lore (Lennon) of Terre Haute, Abby Ellinger (Derek) of Greenwood and Paige Bueltemann (Jonas) of Munster, Germany. His great grandchildren are Andrew and Augustus Lore, Ava and Jack Ellinger and Nora and Fenley Bueltemann. He leaves behind one brother, Jack Kegley of Greenwood. Ray was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Kegley.
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Ray graduated from Clark High School in 1955 and joined the United States Army. He retired from active duty and the Army reserves in 1976 with the rank of Command Sergeant Major. Ray was a builder all of his life, first with his father and brother, Jack. Later, he owned his own construction company. From 1981 to 2000 he worked as a building trade’s instructor at Central-9 Vocational School, making a positive impact on many. Ray enjoyed softball and golf, once scoring a hole-in-one. He was a faithful member of Community Congregational Church, singing in the choir and serving as a deacon and trustee. He used his carpentry talents on mission trips to various places. Ray will always be remembered for his spirited sense of humor, strong work ethic, honesty, and love for family and friends.
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There will be no public service at this time only a graveside family service at Hurricane Cemetery in Franklin, IN. A memorial celebration of life will take place later in the year when all can gather safely. If you wish to make a donation in his name, you may choose from either the Hurricane Community Church, 4592 N. Hurricane Road, Franklin, Indiana 46131 or the ALS Association, Indiana Chapter, 7202 E. 87th St., Suite 102, Indianapolis, Indiana 46256 or at <a href="http://www.alsa.org">www.alsa.org</a>.
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Swartz Family Community Mortuary and Memorial Center 300 South U.S. 31 (Morton Street) in Franklin, IN is handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at <a href="http://www.swartzmortuary.com">www.swartzmortuary.com</a>. Information 317-738-0202.
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