Ray Dean Jones, 88, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on June 19th in Ogden. A loving husband, father, grandfather, coach and friend.

Born to Walter Jones and Kathy Bryant in Bellevue, Nebraska on January 6th, 1936. Ray grew up alongside his two sisters Pat and Phyllis in many places from Arkansas, San Francisco and Okinawa. Eventually, landing in Ogden,

Following in the military footsteps of his father at a young age, Ray aspired to earn his

wings as a Navy Pilot. Despite challenging flight school for years, his life veered on a different path not far from planes as he enjoyed a 28 year long career as an air traffic controller at SLC Airport.

Ray cherished many pastimes in life, but three passions outshined the rest: golf, skiing,

and tennis; all that he sought perfection in. Especially golf, always chasing the perfect shot where no shot was good enough. As a PSIA certified instructor, Ray truly enjoyed teaching and developing skiers, young and old. He provided exhaustive amounts of support and effort in setting the foundation for both the men's and women's soccer programs at WSU, an admired legacy.

A scent that many came to familiarize with Ray was the waft of his pipe, something that signaled he was nearby whether at the top of the slopes or on the first tee at the Ogden Country Club. Ray was not one that fretted over the small things providing the advice of, "It is what it is, so don't worry about it". His competitive spirit was complemented by his protective presence.

Ray is survived by his daughter Jackie Jolley, three granddaughters: Ellyx (Colton), Samantha (Austin) & Cameron (Tyler), two great Grandsons Watson & Stance. Daughter Kari Jones, Grandson Sterling Ackerman (Cari), Great Granddaughters Liv & Ivy Ackerman, and Great son Cruz Ballantine. Son Cory Jones (Jenna), Grandsons Jordan & Cayden. Preceded by wife Sophie and son-in-law Dr. Scott Jolley.

Celebration of Ray's life will be held July 18th at OGCC. Open house 5-8 pm, tribute 6-6:45 pm. We invite contributions to Wounded Warriors Project in lieu of flowers.