Ray S. Hill, age 89, died peacefully in his home on October 6th 2020. Ray was born April 19, 1931 to Parley Pratt and Sarah Verlie Wagstaff in Spanish Fork, Utah. He graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1949 and attended Utah Technical College taking business classes. He served in the Navy, Korean War, where he was stationed in the Philippines and Japan.
He married Diann Street October 3, 1960 in the Salt Lake Temple. They were blessed with 8 children and formed a strong family bond. Ray is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many organizations within the Scouting program, Sunday School, Elder's and High Priest Quorum. He served for many years in the Provo Temple.
Ray worked as a Ceramic Tile Setter for more than 50 years. His beautiful high-quality work can be found in homes and businesses throughout Utah Valley. He took pride in his work and employed many fine men in the community. He was a hard worker, it was often said of him that he did the work of two men.
Ray was an avid sport enthusiast and loved playing softball, football, swimming, skiing, and water skiing. One of his greatest passions was Appaloosa horses, he loved competing. His horse Uinta Dust was a National Grand Champion Cutting horse and they competed in shows throughout the nation. He was a member of the Diamond Fork Riding Club and was instrumental in getting community support for the rodeo. He was a member of the Kiwanis International Club where he served as president. His top priority was serving the needs of the youth of the community.
Ray had many hobbies including: hunting, leatherwork, woodworking, and oil painting. His favorite things to do were tell a good joke, show you his artwork, and share his candy. His favorite quote before you ate his candy was "You had better be careful, because that candy will make your hair curly."
A hallmark of the type of man Ray was came in the form of friends, he could make friends with anyone. Everyone knew him and had a good word to say about him. He had a quick wit, a kind smile, and a twinkle in his eye. He was generous with his time and talents. Even though he suffered from many disabilities in his life he never complained of the difficulties. He always made time to serve his fellow man.
Survivors include his wife Diann, Cheri Van Dam of West Jordon, RaeAnn (Kurtis) Nelson of Spanish Fork, Joel (Chris) Hill of Mapleton, James (Julie) Hill of American Fork, Jason (Kathie) Hill of Spanish Fork, Janette (Kevin) Lake of Santaquin, John (Carrie) Hill of Spanish Fork, Emily (Denny) Trafny of Spanish Fork, and Rachelle (Jeff) Puckett of Millcreek. He has 26 Grandchildren and 31 Great Grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and 4 brothers and 5 sisters, who we are sure happily welcomed their final family member back.
Funeral services will take place Friday, October 9th 2020 at the LDS Chapel located 600 North Main in Spanish Fork, Utah. A Viewing for family and friends will be held 10:00- 11:00 with the funeral following at 11:15. Interment will be at the Spanish Fork Cemetery
The family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the many family and friends who visited, helped, and gave support during this challenging time. Special thanks to Paige Steele, Heather Eddington, and Maple Creek Hospice for their professional and empathetic care.
Family & Friends may express condolences and share memories of Ray at www.legacyfunerals.com