Ray Thomas Decker, age 65, of Leitchfield, Kentucky, passed away Friday, September 25, 2026, at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family. Ray fought hard to stay with the people he loved, holding on until God called him home.

Ray was a handshake kind of guy. He was a good man. He took pride in his work and believed in doing things the right way. Above all, he believed in honesty. Ray was a man of his word. He worked in concrete and later became an owner-operator with Decker Trucking. Ray was a man of few words, but the way he lived spoke volumes. He showed his love through his actions and was always there for his family. They always knew they could count on him. Ray believed in God, and every time he smiled, you could see the spirit of his salvation shining through that grin. Even though God had the roadmap, Ray knew exactly where he was going when he left this world.

Ray had a lifelong love of cars and took great joy in finding a new treasure. More than anything, though, he cherished the life he shared with Patty—his angel, his best friend, and the love of his life. He enjoyed their road trips to the ocean, where they could spend time together and enjoy the life they had shared for 43 wonderful years. Patty and Ray shared a love that only grew stronger as the years went by. Their love was a storybook of its own, filled with a lifetime of memories, laughter, and life together. He absolutely adored Patty.

Their love lives on through their children, who carry a beautiful part of that love with them every day. Ray was a good father. He taught his children by example. He taught them to work hard, be honest, keep your word, and love your family. His greatest lessons were shown through his actions, his kindness, and the way he cared for others.

Ray was known as “Poppy” to his granddaughters, Kolbee Raelynn, Emmersyn Kate, and Saylor Claire. Being their Poppy was a role he cherished deeply. He loved spending time with them, making memories, and watching them grow. And then there was Laney Faith, his precious granddaughter who was taken from this world far too soon. She held a special place in Poppy’s heart, and she always will.

I know that when Ray left this world, Laney Faith was there to welcome her Poppy home. Poppy will always be their guardian angel, watching over all of his grandbabies.

Ray had a special love for his animals. His day didn’t start without Harley, MoJo, and Kitty Tom. They were always there, keeping him company and bringing him so much joy. Ray also loved being outdoors. He took a lot of pride in his yard and his flowers. He enjoyed taking care of them and watching them bloom beautifully.

Ray had a gift for making people laugh and always knew how to bring a smile to your face. Ray was dearly loved, and now he will be dearly missed.

Ray leaves to honor his memory his beautiful wife of 43 years, Patty Decker. His children are Shena Higdon (Adam), Dustin Decker, and Brock Decker. His grandchildren are Kolbee Raelynn Higdon, Emmersyn Kate Higdon, and Saylor Claire Higdon. He is also survived by his brothers, Shelby Decker (Ruth), Arville Decker (Angela), Damon Decker (Sue), Randall Decker (Debbie), and Raymond Decker (Sheila); his sisters, Marvetta Parks and Rita Duvall; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Lodean Decker; his sister, Nancy Darlene Decker; and his precious granddaughter, Laney Faith Higdon.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 PM (CT), Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Rogers Funeral Home with Bro. Vester Decker officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Anthony Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 PM, Monday and after 9 AM, Tuesday at the funeral home.