Jones, Raymond Edward

Raymond Edward Jones, age 77 of Dodgeville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, Friday, August 1, 2025. Ray was born on January 28, 1948, in Castle Rock to William and Lillian (Richards) Jones.

He grew up farming in Highland with 7 siblings, milking cows, raising animals and developing a work ethic that lasted the rest of his life. Ray was a thoughtful, quiet man that expressed himself more with deeds and actions than words.

Ray married the love of his life, Barbara Grimm, on June 20, 1970, winning her over with steadfast persistence and boyish handsomeness.

Ray was a dedicated parent, not only to his own children but also as a foster parent to over 100 children throughout the years. His calm strength was an anchor and touchstone that impacted and nurtured many.  

Barb and Ray bought the Dodgeville Locker Plant, in the early 1970’s and ran it until the 1990’s. They employed many people, supporting the community with top notch services and Ray’s award-winning ring bologna. The Locker Plant spice room contained amazing smells as well as magic and secrets. It was hard work, and they took pride in running the business together.

Ray drove school bus for Dodgeville Schools for many years after closing the locker until he officially retired. Throughout all the ‘working years’ and after, Ray was the family chef, grilling, baking, and cooking for the household and special family occasions. No event was complete without ‘Ray’s beans’.

Ray was also a volunteer fireman for the Dodgeville Fire Department from 1976 until 2000. For over 20 years everyone knew not to park Ray in because he could be called away at any time.

Ray embraced adventure and travel. From camping and cooking over the fire, to family trips in Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, England, many destinations around the United States, and eventually establishing a yearly trip to New Orleans.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lillian, and his son, Michael.

Ray is survived by his wife of 55 years, Barbara (Grimm) Jones of Dodgeville; his siblings Edward/Bud (Linda) Jones, Doris (the late Don) Tomashaska, Russell (the late Susie) Jones, Ruth (Helmuth) Krause, Randy (Vicky) Jones, Rose Mary Jones, Jim (Gift) Jones; his children Bob (Sara) Jones, Bill (Liz) Jones, Joey (Josh Nielsen) Jones, Bryan (Lexus) Jones; his grandchildren Taylor, Tristan, Matthew, Georgia, Michael, Jaxson, Milo and many others who are Ray’s (kids) and (GRAND kids).

A Memorial Service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8, 2025 at the GORGEN-McGINLEY & AYERS FUNERAL HOME in Dodgeville. A visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. until time of service on Friday at the funeral home.

Gorgen-McGinley & Ayers 

Funeral Home

www.gorgenfh.com