Raymond Louis Swartz, Jr.

In Loving Memory of

Raymond Louis Swartz, Jr.

September 15, 1953 – November 2, 2026

Raymond Louis Swartz Jr., lovingly known as “Ray,” was born on September 15, 1953, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to the late Raymond L. Sr. and Wilda (McCall) Swartz. A 1971 graduate of Blacklick Valley High School. As a kid he stocked shelves at Gold Crown Grocery in Nanty Glo. Former coal miner and union journeyman carpenter. He went on to dedicate his career to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, where he worked as a Carpentry Instructor until his retirement. While Ray took pride in his work, his greatest accomplishment and deepest source of happiness was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a man whose kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Laurie (Hill) Swartz. Laurie was more than his wife; she was his best friend, his companion, and the person with whom he loved sharing life’s simplest and most meaningful moments. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. Whether spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Ray was happiest when Laurie was by his side. Their love was a beautiful example of friendship, devotion, and a lifetime of standing together.

Ray also leaves behind his cherished children, Nathan (Renee), Nicole (Matthew) Zajdel, and Amanda (Brandon) Croyle. He loved his children deeply and was always someone they could count on for love, guidance, and support. Being their father was one of the greatest blessings of his life.

Perhaps nothing brought Ray greater joy than being a grandfather. His beloved grandchildren, Tristan, whom he was especially proud of for his service in the United States Navy; Winter, Wylder, Jaelyn, Maggie, Makenna, Matthew, Bryce, and Juniper, truly were his world. He treasured every moment spent with them, and each held a special place in his heart. Whether sharing stories, making memories, offering a helping hand, or simply being present, Ray made sure his grandchildren knew how much they were loved. The bond he shared with them was something truly special, and the love he gave them will remain a part of their lives forever.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ruthanne and George Hill; his siblings, Madeline Martinazzi, Janice Deetscreek, and brother Larry; his sisters-in-law, Terry McPhee, Susan Lee, and Cathy; and his brother-in-law, Steve Simesek.

He is survived by his brother, Brian; his sisters, Nancy (Don) Thomas, Linda (Greg) Lonesky, Brenda (Jim) Mackanick, Susan (Glenn) Calendar, Lori Oldham, and Lisa Simesek; his sister-in-law, Wendy (Mike) Bush; and his brothers-in-law, Mike Lee, Bob McPhee, Barry (Judy) Deetscreek, and Bob Martinazzi. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Those who knew Ray will remember a man with a gentle soul and an extraordinarily generous heart. He was the kind of person who would give whatever he could to help someone in need, never expecting anything in return. He had a way of making people feel cared for, valued, and loved. His compassion was genuine, his love was unconditional, and his presence brought comfort to those around him. Ray enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially when those moments were shared with Laurie. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures and understood that the greatest treasures were not material things, but the people we love and the memories we create together. Above all, Ray was a man of faith. He loved the Lord and carried in his heart the promise of eternal life. He was at peace with his faith and ready for the day he would be welcomed into heaven. Though his family must now face a world without his physical presence, they find comfort in knowing that Ray is resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus, free from pain and surrounded by everlasting love. The true measure of a man’s life is not found in the years he lived, but in the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the memories he leaves behind. By that measure, Ray lived a truly beautiful life. His absence will be felt in countless ways—in the quiet moments, the family gatherings, the familiar places, and the everyday memories that will forever bring him to mind. There will be moments when his family wishes for just one more conversation, one more laugh, or one more day together. But even in their sorrow, they will carry the greatest gift Ray could have given them: the certainty that they were deeply and unconditionally loved.

Ray, thank you for being the husband, father, grandfather, and friend that you were. Thank you for the love you gave so freely, the sacrifices you made without hesitation, and the beautiful memories that will remain in our hearts forever. You were our strength, our comfort, and one of life’s greatest blessings. Though we would give anything for more time with you, we find peace in knowing that this is not goodbye forever, but only goodbye for now.

Until we meet again, may you rest peacefully in the loving arms of Jesus. You will always be loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

Friends will be received at Salix Bethel Church from 10 a.m. until time of service at noon on Friday November 6, 2026, Dr. Chad Brown and the Reverend Russell Havener, presiding. 

Arrangements by Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home. Inc., South Fork. 

In lieu of flowers please consider memorial donations to Salix Bethel Church, 1021 Forest Hills Dr., Salix, PA 15952.