Raymond Acra

Raymond Joseph Acra, an indomitable spirit who painted life with a vibrant palette of love, history, and community, passed away on May 15, 2025 at the age of 66. Born on February 1, 1959, and a lifelong resident of Harrison, Ray's heart beat in tune with the stories of his hometown-a melody of passion and pride that resonated through every project he undertook.
Ray was a true custodian of local history, forever entwined with the essence of Harrison. He played a pivotal role in restoring the beloved Harrison Gazebo, updating headstones in the park, and transforming Willow Park into a cherished space for families to gather. His fascination with Native American artifacts and the rich tapestry of history fueled his quest for knowledge and understanding, making him a beloved figure among those who shared his passion.
Professionally, Ray served tirelessly in the Hamilton County Auditor & Recorder's Office, where he meticulously crafted maps, leaving a legacy etched in ink and tradition. After his retirement in 2000, he ventured into real estate, and later on launched the Whitewater River Trading Post- where he shared his love of old things with others. Ray also had a love of art and painted many oil paintings over the years, some of which will be displayed at the funeral home for all to admire.
As a father, Ray devoted his heart and soul to his sons, Samuel, Mark, and Eric, instilling in them a love of life, sports, and creativity. Together, they forged memories on the baseball diamond and the basketball court, as parental guidance blended effortlessly with friendship.
An ardent lover of nature, Ray found joy in planting wildflower seeds and trees, envisioning them as gifts for future generations. His heart swelled with happiness when he saw families gather around the picnic table beneath the shade of the tree he planted-a testament to his lasting impact on the community he cherished so dearly.
Ray's laughter and warmth will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife, Deborah (nee Larbus) Acra, his sons: Samuel, Mark (Paige Johnson-McGill), and Eric (Melisa) Acra, cherished siblings, Bill (Barbara), Stephen (Dr. Janet), Janie, and Rita (John), and the numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives he touched.
Ray is welcomed into eternal peace by his loving parents, Harold and Eleanor (Rolfes), and his brother, Thomas.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 4 PM to 7 PM at Brater Winter Funeral Home. Together, we will gather to honor Ray's legacy, sharing memories and laughter, as he would have wished. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 AM on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, located at 10010 Carolina Trace Rd, Harrison, OH 45030. Burial will follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, where Ray's spirit will rest among the roots of the community he loved.
In lieu of flowers, we invite you to celebrate Ray's memory by making a donation to the Harrison Fire Department-a nod to his commitment to community and service.
Let us come together to celebrate a life well-lived, rich in love, and ever in pursuit of the beauty that surrounds us!
Services
Visitation
Tuesday
May 20, 2025
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Brater Winter Funeral Home - Harrison
201 S. Vine St.
Harrison, OH 45030
Funeral Mass
Wednesday
May 21, 2025
10:00 AM
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (New)
10010 Carolina Trace Rd
Harrison, OH 45030