Raymond Leon Todd, 77, of Richmond passed away Tuesday, June 17, at NorthCare Hospice House in North Kansas City. Ray was born June 20, 1947, in Sullivan to William Milton and Shirley (Farrow) Todd. He married Gloria Jean Turner of St. Clair on Feb. 12, 1966. She survives of the home. Raymond also is survived by his son, Jeff (Kimberly) Todd of Richmond; and daughters, Mary (Willie) Pittman of Richmond and Valarie (Randy) Stark of Oak Grove. Other survivors include nine grandchildren: Randi (Andrew) DeBey, Hannah (Kaleb) Birdsong, Alysha Pittman, Krysten Stark, Julia Pittman, Kaylee Stark, Laine (Rylee) Todd, Karissa Stark and Lillian Todd.

In addition, he leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Samantha DeBey, Maverick Birdsong, Roman Birdsong, Arabella Pittman, Harper Birdsong, Johnathan Gauge DeBey, Louis James Todd and Whitley Wisemore. A brother, Paul William (Jane) Todd of Troy; one sister, Fern Kay Cuneio of North Kansas City; and nieces and nephews survive as well.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents. Raymond was raised and educated in the St. Clair and Sullivan area, graduating from Sullivan High School. He went on to attend North Central Bible College in Minneapolis, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

In 1972, Ray was ordained as an Assembly of God minister. Throughout his ministry, he and his wife faithfully served numerous congregations across Minnesota, Missouri and Texas. He played a key role in the planning and construction of several new churches and was deeply committed to both his family and his flock — a true man of God whose compassion and devotion left a lasting impact on many lives.

In his early years, Ray enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially duck hunting. As time passed, his passion shifted to gardening. With a natural green thumb, he took great joy in tending his garden and generously sharing the harvest with family and friends. He especially loved visiting farmers’ markets and connecting with others over fresh produce.

Ray was a kind and gentle soul who was cherished as a loving husband and father, and the perfect grandfather and great-grandfather.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Raymond Leon Todd Memorial Fund. Memorials can be mailed or dropped off to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services were held Saturday, June 21, at Richmond Assembly of God Church, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., followed by the services at 11. Burial was in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Ray with the family at www.thurmanfuneral home.com.