Raymond Flanery Jr. went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 26, 2023, in Arma, Kansas.
Raymond, or "Junior" as he was lovingly called by family while growing up, was born December 31, 1936, in Branch, Mason County, Michigan, to Raymond Leroy Flanery Sr. and Mary Martha (Foster) Flanery. Raymond's mother passed away when he was 10 months old, and he and his sister were raised by his grandparents, Vincent and Bertha (Shanafelt) Flanery.
He grew up in Ruby Creek, Logan Township, Michigan, where he, as a young man, enjoyed hunting morel mushrooms on his grandparents' 180-acre farm.
He enlisted in the Air Force in 1954 and served until 1962. He retired from Great Lakes Castings, LLC in Ludington, Michigan.
Raymond was united in marriage with Phyllis Haywood on December 18, 1982, in Ludington, Michigan and became known as "Pop" to her children and their families, who loved him like a father. Raymond and Phyllis owned and operated a flea market business in Sears, Michigan, for 22 years before retiring and making their home in Arma, Kansas, in 2005. Raymond attended Victory Life Church and enjoyed going to church every Sunday, as often as possible. He also loved to feed the many stray cats that came to his home.
Raymond is survived by his stepchildren, Vivian (Daniel) Lawrence of Arma, Kansas, and Sharon Wilson of Girard, Kansas, many step-grandchildren and step-great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents; his wife, Phyllis, on February 14, 2010; his sister, Gloria Rice, on October 16, 2023; a stepchild, Marlene Hall, on July 3, 2014; and a step-grandchild.
Raymond was a friend to everyone he met and brought joy to all with his smile and good nature. He will be missed by many.
The family will have a private memorial service at a later date. The family is asking that donations be sent in lieu of flowers to help with expenses. Please mail to Vivian Lawrence, P.O. Box 112, Arma, KS 66712.
