Ray E Mowery

MOWERY RAY E. Founder of Prescott Florist Trilby OH Ray E. Mowery, 80 of Toledo OH passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday May the 9th 2017 after a long struggle with congestive heart failure. He was born on March 12, 1937 to Dorr and Tressie Mowery (Brashear) in Toledo, OH. He graduated from Bedford High school in 1956 and proudly served on the reunion committee. Ray married the love of his life Shirley (Mann) on June 16th, 1962. Ray worked for the Kroger Co. for five years and helped open the Miracle Mile store. He then pursued a new career working in the florist business. He worked at many shops including Manzel Flower shop for 7 years and was known in the area for his beautiful artistry with flowers. Through the generosity of a neighbor, Mary Prescott, Ray opened his own shop named after Mary who made his dream come true. That was the highlight years of his life, making others happy with flowers in the Trilby/West Toledo area. Some of his fondest memories were there working with his extended family /employees. Fun and laughter filled the air daily at work. Ray also taught floral design for many years for the Adult Education Departments at the University of Toledo, Whitmer High School, and Bedford High School. After 25 years, and wear on his physical body, he sought a new career in the florist wholesale business working at Cleveland Plant & Flower Co. as a supply manager for 10 years before his retirement. He was a self-taught accomplished pianist who started playing in local night clubs at the age of 17 at various venues such as the Willows restaurant, churches, and in recent years in nursing homes Ray was an active member of Calvary Bible Chapel for 51 years, and served as a Sunday school teacher for seniors, and drama director. He loved his church and church family; they were like his own family. Ray cherished time with his family, especially at his cabin on the Raisin River. He was an avid fisherman, and could catch them when no one else could! He was known for his sense of humor. No one could tell a joke quite like him. Ray is survived by his wife Shirley of 54 years, daughter Shelly Mowery, Toledo, Darren (Sophia) Mowery, Ludwigshafen, Germany, Jason L. Mowery, Monroe, MI., grandchildren, DJ, Sarah, Jaycee, Ryan, & Great Granddaughter Luna. Sisters also survive him, Lola (James) Brown, Barbara (Jack) Barker, Debra Cross, Penny (Brian) Bodell, and brothers Darell and Anthony (Connie) and 11 nieces and nephews who adored their uncle Ray. The family will be forever grateful to Ohio Living Hospice for their loving care given during these past few months which allowed Ray to remain in his home. Visitation will be held at Calvary Bible Chapel, 3740 W. Alexis Road, Toledo OH 43623 on Friday May 12th from 12 Pm to 8 Pm, and Saturday from 9-11 am followed by the Funeral at 11:00. Following the internment at Toledo Memorial Park, a dinner will be held in Ray’s honor at the church. Ray was a gourmet cook, and was known for “Ray’s famous roast beef”, which will be served at the celebration of life dinner. To honor his memory per his wishes, his request was that any floral tributes sent would be paid forward after the service by sending them to his church family shut- ins and nursing homes in his honor. Please have flowers delivered to the church. walterfuneralhome .com