Ray A. Yoder

Ray Andrew Yoder, 74, of Bay Village, Ohio, passed away on January 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, passion, and diverse interests that touched countless lives.
Born February 5, 1950, in Columbus, Ohio to Russell and Ida Mae Yoder, Ray was a proud graduate of Wittenberg University and earned his business degree from William and Mary. His professional career was marked by success as a business professor and executive, serving as treasurer of IMG and holding CEO and CFO positions at various growth and mid-sized companies.
A true Renaissance Man, Ray's interests knew no bounds. His love for the Cleveland Guardians was legendary – he held season tickets since 1993 and cherished his time at fantasy baseball camp. In his younger years, he was an avid tennis player. His passion for restoration led him to breathe new life into a Victorian farmhouse and two barns. He was an enthusiastic collector of primitive antiques and oriental rugs, and his knowledge of American history was matched only by his devotion to Neil Young and The Who.
Ray found joy in life's simple pleasures – drinking wine and cooking with his beloved wife Fran, talking about his sons, and helping others. His gift for friendship was remarkable; to meet Ray was to become his friend.
He is survived by his wife Fran; sons Andrew and Robert; granddaughter Violet; brother Jim; and a community of friends who became family. His genuine warmth, generosity of spirit, and ability to connect with everyone he met will be deeply missed.
A Celebration of Life to be held Saturday January 25, 2025 from 2:00- 4:00 pm at Jenkins Funeral Chapel 2914 Dover Center Road Westlake
If anyone would like to send something, in lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cleveland Animal Protective League, Tails from the City, or North East Ohio SPCA.
https://clevelandapl.org/honor-memorial-donations/
https://tailsfromthecitycleveland.org/donate/
https://northeastohiospca.org/ways-to-give