Ray O. Corbett's Obituary
Ray O. Corbett, age 81, passed away on June 23, 2026. Born February 19, 1945 in Ravenna, Ohio, Ray was the son of the late Clyde and Olive (Horner) Corbett. Ray was the beloved husband of Carol Corbett (née Fejedelem), whom he married in 1997. The special bond that they shared was apparent, and those around them often remarked that they were a "cute couple".
Ray was the loving father of Jeremy (Tracy) Corbett, Randall (Tonie) Corbett, Joshua (MaryJane) Corbett, Brian Corbett, and Robyn (Juan) Barreto. He was also a devoted stepfather to Colleen (Kyle) Jacobs and the late Courtney Vance. Ray was the proud grandfather of thirteen grandchildren and great-grandfather of five great-grandchildren.
He was the dear brother of Ruth Harper (John), Marie Green, Clyde "Jim" Corbett (Jill), and the late Carroll Heaslet (John, surviving), Lynn Corbett, William Corbett and Tom Corbett (Barb, surviving). He was also a cherished uncle and great-uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Ray graduated from Crestwood High School in 1963 and later attended Kent State University before enlisting into the US Air Force, where he served honorably from 1965 to 1969, carrying with him the values of duty, discipline, and commitment that would guide him throughout his life. His military service remained an important part of his story, and he was proud to have answered the call to serve his country during a time of need.
Following his service, Ray built a long and steady career as a machinist at Simcox Grinding and Steel, retiring in 2007 after 28 years of dedicated service. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and the quiet pride he took in doing his job well.
Ray was also deeply involved in his community, especially in the Mantua American Legion Post 193 for 17 years. He served various offices and was the current Post Commander and also served as Vice Commander, Sergeant at Arms, Honor Guard and Color Guard. Roles he carried out with honor and commitment. He was recognized for his over 300 hours of volunteering at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. His leadership and loyalty to fellow veterans reflected his belief in service, camaraderie, and supporting others. Through his years with the Legion, he formed lasting friendships and made a meaningful impact on those around him. He also participated with the Boys State and Girls State programs and was a faithful blood donor with the American Red Cross, donating almost 11 gallons of blood. He took pride in being a registered organ donor as well.
Outside of work and service, Ray found joy in the simple and rewarding pleasures of life. He enjoyed gardening and yard work, taking pride in caring for his home and surroundings. He also loved playing on the Babes of 1916 Senior Softball League, but above all, Ray treasured the time he spent with his family. Being with those he loved was always among his greatest joys, and he cherished every opportunity to share in their lives.
Ray never met a stranger and he taught those around him that character is not measured by what a person says, but by what they do. What people will remember most about him is not just what he knew - it was how he shared himself with others.
Ray will be remembered as a man of integrity, strength, and kindness. He lived a life rooted in responsibility and devotion, and he left behind a legacy of service to his country, dedication to his work, and love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the lives he touched and the example he set for all who knew him.
We will miss his voice, his stories, his laughter and his steady presence, but we take comfort in knowing that love does not end when someone leaves this earth...it remains in our hearts, guiding us forward.
Family and friends may gather for visitation on Monday, June 29, 2026 from 4 - 7 pm at Green Funeral Care, 4668 Pioneer Trail, Mantua and again on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 from 10 -11 a.m. immediately followed by a funeral service to begin at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery, where Ray will be laid to rest with full military honors presented by The US Air Force and assisted by the Mantua American Legion Post 193.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ray's memory to the Mantua American Legion Post 193, P.O. Box 252, Mantua, Ohio 44255.
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