Usaf Smsgt. Ray (Ret.) Ferguson

USAF SMSgt. (Ret.) Ray Ferguson, age 79 of Kettering, formerly of Sparta, Illinois, passed away Monday April 2, 2018 at the Miami Valley Hospital.  He was born October 17, 1938 in Blane, KY, the son of the late Walter and Cora (Ball) Ferguson.  Ray served his country in the United States Air Force during Vietnam, retiring in 1977 at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Mitchell Ray Ferguson.  Survivors include his wife of 59 years. Essie; two children, Tim Ferguson, Sandy (Jerry) Hotchkiss; four grandchildren, Zach Hotchkiss, Elaina (Sean) Remine, Cory Hotchkiss, Cassidy Hotchkiss; three brothers, Vernon (Reba) Ferguson, Jackie Ferguson, David Ferguson; two sisters, Avonell (Carl) Sparks, Judy Anderson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.  A funeral service will be held on Wednesday April 4, 2018 at 1:30 P.M. at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 P.M. until the time of service.  Burial with full military honors will follow at the Dayton National Cemetery.