Ray Shurtleff

James Raymond Shurtleff, beloved master of self-amusing jokes, king of pancake flipping and Chinese cuisine, champion of the remote control, and avid follower of professional wrestling, has passed from this world.

On the morning of August 8, 2025, Ray took his final breath at home, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, Gwen Aloisio. Their story began in Tulsa during their late teens, where they formed a friendship that later blossomed into love after reconnecting nearly two decades later. Ray and Gwen married in the summer of 1988, just shy of celebrating their 37th anniversary.

Born on June 12, 1948, in Houston, Texas, Ray grew up in Louisiana during the 1950s and graduated high school in Tulsa in the mid-1960s. He proudly served in the United States Army in the late 1960s and built a successful career in sales, working with prestigious companies like 3M. Ray's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own cleaning company, serving both residential and commercial clients.

Among his proudest achievements was launching a business alongside his son, Drew Shurtleff, where they combined their artistic talents. Drew has since forged his own path, becoming a successful artist celebrated in his field. He is known across the United States.

Ray leaves behind his sister, Mary Barton; his loving wife, Gwen Aloisio; his sons, Drew and Christopher; and his grandchildren, Savannah and Dakota, who will carry his memory forward.