Raphael Gidley

Raphael James "Ray" Gidley, 90, formerly of BonneTerre passed away April 17, 2014 at Green Tree Assisted Living in Mount Vernon,IL. He was born February 6, 1924 in Bonne Terre. Ray attended St. Joseph Parochial Schooland Bonne Terre High School. Aftergraduation he served in the US Army during World War II in the Pacifictheatre. Upon discharge he returned toBonne Terre and held various jobs prior to obtaining employment with theMissouri State Highway Patrol. His lastassignment was office manager supervisor of the satellite station located inSt. Francis County. Ray retired in 1986. He was a very adapt do-it-yourselfer mechanicand builder. He refurbished and flew aWorld War basic trainer plane and two Model A Fords. He also developed property on the CourtoisRiver where he could enjoy the peaceful outdoors. Travels included motorcycletrips with fellow employees and a RV for trips around the country.He waspreceded in death by his parents, Martin and Anna (Naeger) Gidley; fivebrothers, Vernon, Arthur, Leonard, Marvin and Glenwood Gidley; sister, JohannaGidley. Ray issurvived by his brother, Larry Gidley and wife Susan of Richmond, VA; niece andcaregiver, Jennifer Gidley; several other nieces and nephews; best friends,Mike and Doc. Visitationwill be Tuesday, April 22, 2014 from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the C. Z. Boyer& Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre. Mass of Christian Burial will becelebrated at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bonne Terre with Rev.Ted Pieper officiating. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.