Raymon Oliver Klepinger III

Raymon Oliver Klepinger, III, 85, of Worthington, Ohio, passed away on November 24, 2023, at Riverside Methodist Hospital, surrounded by family. Ray passed from acute medical issues, after a short stay in the hospital. He was born on October 10, 1938, in Dayton, Ohio.

Ray was a man of great strength and hard work. He was fiercely loyal to his wife and family, always going above and beyond to take care of them. Despite his prideful, stubborn nature, he had a soft spot for dogs, cats and children, and his love for them was immeasurable. Ray was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, openly expressing his love and acceptance for his family. He took great pride in their accomplishments.

Ray is survived by his sister, Vonine (Gerry) Smith; his spouse of 56 years, Ellen Cullison; his daughter, Lisa (Jason) Jones; his granddaughter, Katie (Jon) Beckett; his great-grandson, Ezra Beckett; his grandchildren, Molly Jones, Stewart Reber, and Atlas Jones; his son, Michael (Diana) Chambers; his grandchildren, Ben Chambers, Frankie Chambers, Falyn Chambers, Ava Marie Chambers, Gianna Rose Chambers, and Alexis (Adam) Mays; his great-grandchildren, JJ and Hayden. He was preceded in death by his father, Von Hubert Klepinger; his mother, Pauline Klepinger; his son, Frank Chambers; his son, Gary Chambers; his granddaughter, Alicia Chambers; and his grandson, Zachary Chambers.

Ray’s educational journey led him to the University of Dayton, where he earned a Master’s in School Administration, and The Ohio State University, where he earned a bachelor’s in education.

Throughout his career, Ray worked as an instrumental music instructor and band director for a total of 23 years, at Northridge High School, Grandview High School, and Utica High School. He then dedicated 18 years to EMC Publishing, where he excelled as one of the top salespeople in the country for several years.

Ray found solace and community in his faith, attending the Worthington United Methodist Church, where he was an active usher, and then transferring to the Maple Grove United Methodist Church, when his family transferred their membership.

In his free time, Ray enjoyed being a member of the OSU Marching Band, as an undergraduate, playing the snare drum. He also continued his musical pursuits as a member of the OSU Alumni Band Hyperactive Band, showcasing his talent on the snare drum. Ray was also a Master Mason and was a member in good standing of the Masonic fraternity for sixty years.

A private memorial service was held for the family to honor Ray’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Utica High School Music Program in Ray’s memory.

The Shaw-Davis Funeral Home in Clintonville, Ohio, is assisting the family with the arrangements.