Final Salute

Orville Ray Dennison, 90, of Millersburg, Missouri, passed away on March 12, 2025, at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, surrounded by his family and friends.

He was born on November 30, 1934, in Lesterville, Missouri to the late Arthur Ray and Freeda Lucile (Pearl) Dennison. Ray was united in marriage to Marilyn Agnes Juncker in 1956. He worked at Emerson Electric prior to proudly serving in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1958 as part of the Seabees, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to service to his country. Following his military tenure, he pursued his passion for construction by founding his own company in 1965. His hard work and dedication to his trade left a lasting impact on his clients and those who worked alongside him.

Ray loved driving his side by side in the country and enjoyed this hobby with his kids and grandkids. He looked forward to attending an annual family reunion in Black, Missouri, and will be missed by his many extended family members who still reside in that area. He enjoyed camping with his family and attending the annual 4-Wheel Jamboree in Indianapolis for many years. He was an avid MU Tigers fan and attended many football and basketball games, including travelling to some away games. Ray met weekly with his buddies in the “morning breakfast crew” to share their views on current events. He was also proud to have the honor to join the Central Missouri Honor Flight to visit war memorials in Washington, D.C.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 69 years, Marilyn; one sister, Beverly Sue (Dennison) Thompson Beach of Flagstaff, Arizona; three sons Ray Michael (Vicki) Dennison of Columbia, Barry John (Janeen Osborne) Dennison of Millersburg, Randal Lee (Stacie) Dennison of Millersburg; one daughter, Karin Lynn (JV Scofield) Martin of Clark; 12 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his two younger brothers, Larry Dennison and Jerry Dennison.

Services for Ray will be held Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM, followed by the service at 2:00 PM. Interment with Full Military Honors will take place in Red Rock Cemetery, Harrisburg, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial donations in his name to Fulton VFWRG Post 2657, in care of the funeral home. Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com

May Ray’s memory bring comfort to all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Posted online on March 15, 2025

Published in Columbia Daily Tribune