Thurman Ralph Ray

Thurman Ralph Ray, 92, of Venice, Florida passed away August 18, 2021. He was born on April 17, 1929, in Logansport, Indiana to Charles and Lydia (Hill) Ray. Thurman graduated from Hartford City High school in 1947 and went into the United States Navy in 1948 to 1952. Before moving to Sarasota and joining the city of Sarasota Police Department, Thurman was an officer with the Lafayette Indiana Police Department. After retiring as a Sargent from the Sarasota Police Department in 1984, he began working for the Building and Zoning Department of Sarasota County. Thurman loved to be involved in the community. He was the President of the F.O.P Chapter #3 from 1962-1963. He was also the President of the International Association for Identification, Florida Division, in 1969. Thurman was an instructor in the Criminal Justice Program at the Sarasota County Technical Institute for many years. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. He is predeceased by his wife Barbara (O'Connell) Ray, daughter Leanna Ray Cook, sister Sharon Panozzo, and brother Jack Ray. He is survived by his grandson Gary (Tony) A. Jacobs, sister Deanne Kordeck, and many nieces and nephews. A service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Tidewell Hospice.