RADER

Raymond (Ray) H. Rader (84) passed away peacefully with family at his side on Feb. 1, 2025. Ray was born April 2, 1940, in St. Louis MO, the fourth of eight children of the late Carl WJ and Gertrude (Wagner) Rader. Ray grew up in a family full of love and learned early a strong work ethic, which he carried all his life. As a young man, Ray loved God and was baptized into Christ Jesus, his Lord and Savior. While Ray was employed at Wagner Brake St Louis, 1959 to 1981, he achieved two years of college. In the many years, as a dedicated employee, he moved his way into upper management. Ray was transferred to Wagner Brake in Tullahoma TN in 1981 to 2003, when he retired. He greatly enjoyed his 44 years of various positions/departments and working with all the employees. Ray greatly loved his country, God, his loving wife of 40 years, his children and grandchildren, his siblings and ALL the family. As “Dad and Pops” to his children, whom he was so proud of, or as “Granpa and PaPac” to his grandchildren, he was protective, devoted, funny, dearly loved, always present, supportive, guiding and teaching. He had a big heart and his love was unconditional. He was the best husband/soulmate, a woman could ask for; a special one-of-a-kind man, strong, proud, loving, kind, caring, young-at-heart and very smart, a man of many talents. Ray was a beloved brother, brother-in-law, uncle and a friend to many, always ready to help. Ray loved life, but his greatest passion was sharing time with his family. He was humble, down-to-earth and genuine. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee and a cold beer. Ray enjoyed his cats, a good laugh, music, people and making others smile. He also enjoyed woodworking, home projects, firearms and mechanics. He had a great sense of humor. Ray was adventurous and loved the outdoors; especially riding his Harley, camping or being on his tractor. Ray was always in good spirits, even when he felt bad or as his health failed. He always gave a smile, a laugh or a hug. With his presence and full life, Ray was a blessing to us and has forever impacted our lives and filled our family with cherished memories, warmth and great love. We can rejoice knowing Jesus is beside Ray, and in peace, Ray will live forever in our hearts and souls. Ray is survived by his wife, Paula, two daughters: Debbie (Marty) Robinson and Karen Rader, three sons: Ray Rader Jr., Keith (Carrie) Rader and Matthew (Samantha) Rader. Two brothers: Larry (Carol) Rader, Terry (Joyce) Rader and two sisters: Olive Jean Walker and Pauline Harvey. Ray had (24) grandchildren, (22) great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and great friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sharon (Rader) Barteau, sister Gertrude “Sally” (Rader) Freant, two brothers: Carl (Barb) Rader Jr., and Robert Rader. A Celebration of Life will be held at Manchester Funeral Home, 786 McMinnville Hwy Manchester, TN on February 22, 2025, Saturday 12 to 3 p.m. A private family burial will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery, “Services will be rescheduled if there is inclement weather. Please look for an announcement under Mr. Rader’s obituary on Manchester Funeral Home’s website for an update.

Manchester Funeral Home