Ray Howard McCandless

Ray Howard McCandless, 75, passed away on May 1, 2026, at the OSUMC James Cancer Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He was born on June 7, 1950, in Erie, Pennsylvania, to the late Harold Guy McCandless and Dorothy Elaine McCandless.

Ray grew up in Pennsylvania and later made his home in Florida for more than 20 years before moving to Ohio in October 2025 to spend his retirement years near family. His nephew, Tim Gafkjen, took Ray to his appointments in Columbus and was his “biggest supporter.” Tim was like a brother to Ray and Ray loved him dearly. Ray also had a lot of respect for his sister-in-law, Sandy Thaw, and loved her very much as well. Ray was a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend whose kind heart, strength, and generous spirit touched many lives. Ray truly loved making people happy.

Ray worked for Sears and later Lowe’s in appliances and electronics. Customer service was his specialty, and he took great pride in helping others. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including Employee of the Month several times, along with many letters of appreciation from customers. Ray was known for always going above and beyond for anyone at any time. His strong work ethic brought him both pride and happiness. Outside of work, Ray loved race cars, NASCAR, and fixing just about anything. He enjoyed the challenge of repairing and working with his hands and was always willing to lend his knowledge and help to others.

Ray is survived by his brothers, Billie O. Sanner and Gary McCandless both of Pennsylvania; his nieces and nephews, Julie Sanner of Columbus, Ohio, Kari Sanner, John Thaw, Lori and Tim Gafkjen, Jill Sanner, and Dawn Thaw Boyd, all from Marion, Ohio; Tammy “Tam Tam” (John) Haase of North Carolina; Bob (Val) Wilson of Pennsylvania, Shelly (Neil) Haupt of Georgia, Lori Lockhart of Pennsylvania, and Angel (Scott) Daly of West Virginia; as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Guy McCandless and Dorothy Elaine McCandless; brother, Dick McCandless; sister-in-law, Sue Sanner; nieces, Brenda Sanner and Lisa Sanner; nephews, Billie Sanner Jr. and Bill Lockhart and several aunts and uncles. Ray will be dearly missed and forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held soon; details to be announced.