"Devoted, father, and public servant"

Ray Lee, 91 years old, passed away on October 20, 2023, at home with his family by his side.

Ray was born February 24, 1932 in Exeter, Missouri to Hubert D. Lee and Oma Snook. He was drafted into the Army on October 9, 1952. And was promoted to Sergeant First Class on Thanksgiving of 1953 for the 25 Division, 69th Field Artillery on Company C, where he spent 427 days on the front lines in Korea.

Ray married JoAnne Draper on June 30, 1963. The two were each other's lifetime companions for 60 years. They were blessed with six children: Gail, Garold, Gena, Bill, Bobby, and Jody.

He was elected Sheriff of Cheyenne County on November 4, 1969 and officially took office in January 20, 1969. He then retired from Cheyenne County Sheriff in 1998 and later proceeded to be elected as Cheyenne County Commissioner for four years. He then retired. He was granted a certificate from the Kansas Attorney General office that awarded him the lifetime Sheriff of Kansas Award.

He was known to have executed one of the largest drug bust operations in the state of Kansas at that time. In 28 years, he worked 3800 traffic accidents.

Ray is survived by his wife JoAnne and five children: Gail (Sherry), Gena, Bill (Majorie), Bobby (Nina), and Jody (Deron) Fritsche.

Brothers: Randy, Tim, Rocky.

Grandchildren: Wayne, Wyatt, Susie, Sarah, Natasha (Garrett), Casey (Marti), Crystal (Cory), William, May, Veda, Simon, Eric, David, Derrick (Amanda), and Samantha.

Great grandchildren: Mason, Ryken, Jacob, Olivia, Mia, Alex, Cody, Brenan, Zack, Sylus, Tori, Skyler, Ruby, Oliver, Emma, Elaina, Gracie, Bo, Maria, Zoey, and Wade Fritsche.

Ray will be especially remembered for his strong leadership, kindness, compassion, and his love and loyalty for his family and community.

"Those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever." Ray Lee, you are so very missed, but will remain in our hearts forever.