Raymond F. Looker Jr.

Raymond F. Looker, Jr. age 77 of Springfield, Ohio, went home to be with his Lord on January 1, 2025.    He was born on April 9, 1947, to Raymond F. Looker, Sr. and Mary Louise (Moats) Looker. He was married to Shirley Ann (Frazier) in 1968 and continued in that marriage until 2016 when she went to be with the Lord.

Ray grew up on a farm in Howard, Ohio, often working for area farmers baling hay. He enjoyed the outdoors and, since he was not allowed to get a driver’s license until he was 18, he rode his bike wherever he wanted to go.   At East Knox High School, he was on the basketball team.  He was an intellectual person who did well in school, especially in math.  He graduated in 1965.

He attended the Danville Church of Christ where he was baptized on August 15, 1965.

He enlisted in the Air Force on March 15, 1966.  He completed Basic Military Training then continued with the Aircraft Control and Warning course and the Seek Dawn Operation Familiarization Course.  He then attended the Michigan Technological University for training in FAA Academy Pilot Weather Briefing.

He served in the 4627th Support Squadron (SAGE) (ADC) and served in Vietnam in 1968 as an Aircraft Control and Warning Operation and a Weapons Tech.  While in the service, he received the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Commendation medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal.  He was also awarded the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Award.  He was honorably discharged from the US Air Force in 1969 having attained the rank of Sergeant.  He continued in the Air Force Reserves until March 1972.

After leaving the Air Force, he was employed in various jobs such as fork lift operator, oil field pumper, grinder, spray painter, and manager of a fast food restaurant.  From 1973-2007 he worked in various places as an Air Traffic Control Specialist.  He then settled into a position of contracted Weather Observer at the Dayton International Airport where he worked until he recently retired. 

Ray enjoyed being outside working in his garden and doing yard work.  He was an avid reader of Clyde Cussler novels and collected John Deere items.  Traveling and working on family vehicles were some of his enjoyments.   As space permitted, his extensive train collection was set up in his basement.   All those who knew him will remember his wonderful sense of humor.         

He is survived by his son, Neal Looker, of Canton, his grandson Andrew (Maria) Looker of Powell, his grandson Kolton Looker of Springfield, his sister Francine (Pete) Gallwitz of Walhonding, several nephews and nieces, and his aunt Betty Buehler. He was also survived by two loving and lovable cats, Derrick and Cosmos. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley (Frazier) Looker, his parents, a brother Robert Looker, and a sister Sue Williams.

A celebration of life will be held on May 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Milford Church of Christ, Centerburg, Ohio.    Burial with military honors will follow at the Moreland Cemetery near the church.

Condolences may be shared at www.jkzfh.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond F. Looker Jr., please visit our floral store.