Ray

Raymond Arthur Manzer, Jr.

of Smithboro

Raymond Arthur Manzer, Jr., affectionately known to all as Ray, passed away following a courageous battle with Cancer, on November 21, 2024, at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania. Born on August 27, 1945, in Binghamton, New York, his legacy is etched in the hearts of those who knew him, defined by his radiant smile and an unparalleled ability to bring joy to others.

Ray was a proud graduate of Binghamton High School's class of 1965. Following his graduation, he answered the call of duty and served in the US Army until 1967, exhibiting the same dedication and spirit that would characterize his entire life. After his military service, Ray found his niche in the manufacturing industry, retiring from HADCO / Samina following nearly 30 years of employment there. His professional journey did not end with retirement; he ventured into a new chapter as a driver at Stateline Auto Auction, where he remained for 11 years.

The happiest day of Ray's life was when he married his best friend Ellen May, on June 26, 1997. Together, they wove a tapestry of love, life, and laughter. Their shared passions for hunting, fishing, and camping were the backdrop for countless cherished memories. Ray's fishing escapades with his good friend Buz Seeley at Black Lake were among his favorite pastimes. Ray’s love for life extended to his favorite pastime, watching football with his beloved dog AJ, especially when cheering on the New York Giants.

A pillar of his community, Ray was a devoted member of the Barton Riverside Church and served selflessly as a volunteer firefighter for the Forrest Lake and Nichols Fire Departments. His kind, funny, and friendly nature made him a beloved figure to all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him.

He leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly. Ray's family was the cornerstone of his world. He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen May (Ellison) Bidlack-Manzer; sister and brother-in-law, Janice and Jon Harris; mother-in-law, Dorothy Shipman Ellison; and a host of in-laws, including Kathy and Phil Benson, Harriet Cary, James and Nellie Ellison, Marion and Herb Stafford, Eric Ellison, Gary and Tracy Ellison, Carolyn and Palmer Hall, and Dorothy and Lee Stevens. He was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews who adored him: Brad and Lori Zagorsky, Cari and Steve Semmelman and their children Kiera and Alyssa; Danielle and Keith Wallace and their children Kaitlyn and Connor; Jennifer and Vern McGinnis, Jamie Kerezman, Mark and Yoita Benson; Wayland Alexander, Heather Cary, James Ellison, Janelle Ellison, Angela Bogart, Shannon Pike and Mathew Ellison, Chad Porter, Megan Hall, Adam Murphy. His niece-in-law, Tandi Murphy and dear friend Amanda, who were like daughters to him, will forever hold a special place in his heart. We are forever thankful for all their love and support. He will also be missed by many great nephews, great nieces, in-laws and numerous close friends whose lives he touched deeply will also miss him.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond A. Manzer, Sr., and Katherine "Faye" (Biggs) Groat, his stepfather Bill Groat, his stepson Arthur Bidlack II, and his siblings Jerry Manzer, Susan (Patrick) Kerezman, Sharon Manzer. He was also preceded by his brother-in-law Dick Cary and his father-in-law James Ellison.

We will gather for a celebration of Ray’s life on Sunday, December 8th at 2 pm at the Barton Riverside Church, 511 Old Barton Rd., Barton, NY 13734 Memories, stories and your favorite photos may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Memorial contributions may be directed to the Barton Riverside Church, 511 Old Barton Road, Barton NY 13734 in loving memory of Ray Manzer. Ray's spirit and love remain an indelible part of the lives he touched. His legacy of kindness, humor, and friendship will continue to inspire and comfort us as we cherish his memory. Caring assistance is being provided by the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols.