Ray Junior Loftis

Ray Junior Loftis, born on July 20, 1940, in England, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on May 25, 2025.

Ray was a dedicated union sheet metal worker for Bray Sheet Metal for many years. He showcased his strong work ethic and commitment to his craft by taking pride in doing things right.

Ray’s love for life was evident in his many passions. He cherished spending time with his family, particularly his children: Ronald Purtle, Malissa Purtle, and Jack Loftis. He took immense joy in his role as a grandfather, doting on his grandchildren, Elizabeth Purtle Spencer (Matthew), Jodie Loftis, and Shelby Loftis, as well as his great-granddaughter, Emma Spencer. His family not only held a special place in his heart, but they were the core of his life, and he embraced every moment shared with them.

In his later years, Ray and his beloved wife of 55 years, Phyllis Loftis, enjoyed an adventurous life together, partaking in numerous cruises that brought them joy and excitement. His love for travel and exploration was matched only by his enjoyment of attending auctions, fishing, and exploring flea markets. He had a gift for seeing potential where others might not and took pride in being a fixer, whether it was a broken item or a tricky puzzle like the Rubik’s Cube. His ingenuity and resourcefulness were just part of who he was.

Ray Junior Loftis was also part of a close-knit family. He is survived by his siblings, Timbo Loftis, Steven Loftis, and Kay Sanders, alongside numerous nieces, nephews, and many other close family and friends who will remember him fondly.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; his son, Joe Purtle; his granddaughter, Sarah Purtle; his parents, Ray and Vera Loftis; and his siblings, Sammie Loftis, Ronnie Loftis, Diane Castleberry, and Shirley Holland.

A Visitation will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., in Benton, Arkansas, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 PM at the same location.

Ray was the kind of man people respected—quiet but steady and handy with just about anything. He didn’t need the spotlight; he was content just being there for his family and doing what needed to be done. The kind of man who made a lasting impact simply by being himself. His memory will live on in the people he loved, the work he took pride in, and the countless moments—small and large—that he helped make better. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.