Sponsored Sponsored content Raymond ‘Ray’ Dubbs, 101, of Bethlehem (Obituary Brought to You by Heintzelman Funeral Home)

Raymond ‘Ray’ Dubbs

Raymond “Ray” Dubbs, a lifelong resident of Bethlehem, passed away at the remarkable age of 101, leaving behind a legacy defined by devotion to family, faith, service and community. Born in Seidersville to George Raymond Julius Dubbs and Ida Eualia (Strahler) Dubbs, Ray was the fifth of seven children, all of whom preceded him in death. His early years reflected a simpler time—one-room schoolhouses, horse-drawn trolleys, long walks to Broughal Junior High and Liberty High School, and carefree days playing stickball and kick the can with cousins and neighborhood friends. He was raised in the Moravian Church, where his faith took root and remained a steady presence throughout his life. At just 17 years old, Ray left high school to help support his family after the sudden passing of his father. He began working at Bethlehem Steel, but soon answered the call to serve his country. After proposing to his beloved Kitty, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served aboard the USS General Mann, a troop transport ship that traveled to every continent except Antarctica. During World War II, Ray delivered Marines throughout both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, earned Navy honors for preventing a ship collision and developed a lifelong love of the game of cribbage. Upon returning home, Ray married his teenage sweetheart, Katherine Mae “Kitty” Kline, beginning a marriage that would span more than 72 years. He returned to Bethlehem Steel, where he worked for 40 years, retiring as a foreman in the Tool Steel Division while earning his GED. Together, Ray and Kitty raised three sons while building a life filled with hard work, love and memorable adventures. Summers were often spent at Pecks Pond, Harvey’s Lake and Lake Hopatcong, while later years brought cruises, Florida road trips, country western shows and cross-country visits with friends and family. Ray remained active and engaged in his community well into his later years. He was a lifetime member of the SeWyCo Fire Company Social Club, where he continued to play shuffleboard with his sons and grandchildren even after his 101st birthday. He also served as a longtime member and secretary of the Friedensville Rod and Gun Club. A proud Freemason and Shriner, Ray found purpose through spiritual growth and charitable service. Above all else, Ray treasured his family. He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Kitty.

SURVIVORS

He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Wayne (Debra), Barry (Dawn) and Ron (Priscilla); six grandchildren, Megan, Lindsay (Corey), Karin, Dylan (Holly), Nate (Caroline) and Jesse (Dayle); and seven great-grandchildren, Devin, Julianne, Zeke, Rowan, Trevor, Jack and Austin, all of whom affectionately knew him as “PopPop.” His 100th birthday was a joyous celebration shared with family, friends, and nieces and nephews who traveled from near and far. Ray will be deeply missed by his family and the many friends whose lives he touched, especially those at Moravian House and the SeWyCo Social Club. His life stands as a testament to love, service, humility and quiet strength—values that will live on through generations to come.

SERVICES

A memorial service will be announced later. Online condolences may be shared at Heintzelmancares.com.

CONTRIBUTIONS

Memorial contributions can be made to Lower Saucon Fire Rescue with Ray Dubbs, SeWyCo Club in the memo line and sent to Heintzelman Funeral Home, 326 Main St., Hellertown, PA 18055.