FRANKLIN
Ray E. Richey, lifelong Johnson County resident, died Nov. 13, 2016, at the age of 88 in Franklin.
Ray was born Dec. 16, 1927, the son of C. Raymond Richey and Dorothy C. (Chaille) Richey.
Ray graduated from Greenwood High School in 1945. He was an all-around high school athlete and held a 25-year Mid State Conference pitching record for shutout games. The Cleveland Indians offered him a tryout but he instead enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was a World War II veteran. Upon returning from military service, he was employed by Eli Lilly where he retired after 35 years of service.
Ray helped establish the first Greenwood Little League and to construct baseball fields in the 1950s. He was a Little League coach and served the board of directors for years. In retirement, Ray picked up golf and was a strong contender at Hillview Country Club in Franklin.
In 1959, Ray was elected to the first Greenwood City Council. As chairman of the City Planning Commission, he guided construction of the Greenwood Park Mall, the anchor of northern Johnson County’s economic growth. Ray was active for two decades in Greenwood, Franklin and Johnson County politics and is remembered for his uncompromising integrity, kindness and respect for all.
Ray was married to Betty L (Jordan) Richey then Mary A. (Howe/Krassen) Richey. Both predeceased him. He also was predeceased by his mother, father, and sister Betty L. (Richey) Sheek.
Ray leaves four children, Louis, J. Andrew, Martyn and Elizabeth; two stepsons, Bart and Bill Krassen; 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He was a role model to his family and friends and will be missed.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life service for Ray at a later date. Those wishing to make a tribute in his memory are asked to donate to the Franklin Indiana American Legion, Post 205, 1200 Park Ave., Franklin, IN 46131.
