CEARLEY, Raymond Charles (Chuck), 67. On May 11, 2023 our beloved Chuck passed away peacefully in his sleep and joined his parents (Patricia Bowers and Bill Cearley) who preceded him into the loving arms of his Savior. He leaves behind four siblings: Stewart Cearley, Terry (Brenda) Cearley, Edward (Linda) Cearley, Anna (Vinson) Barefoot; 8 nephews and nieces; 19 great-nephews and nieces; and cousins Steve (Julie) Greenup and Sharon Cearley; and many good friends.

In 1975, Chuck joined the 178th Fighter Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard serving as an F-100, A7, and F-16 aircraft mechanic. He also served as a production controller and base services technician before retiring at the rank of Technical Sergeant after 25 years of service. Chuck also worked as a contractor in airport operations at the Piqua Airport for the Hartzell Propeller Company for nearly 30 years. He recently retired after 25 years as a commercial semi-tractor trailer driver.

Chuck earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at Wright State University and later earned a teaching certificate in social studies. In addition to his commercial driver's license, he also held private pilot and multi-engine pilot licenses, primarily flying Cessna 172 Skyhawk and 337 Super Skymaster aircraft.

Chuck enjoyed researching, documenting, and diagramming the family genealogy; growing a wide variety of roses; organizing and maintaining family photo archives; feeding and watching the birds and small animals in his backyard; and spending time in lively conversation with his family and friends.

A graveside service and internment for family and friends will be held at the Millville Cemetery in Millville, OH at 1:00 pm on Friday May 19, 2023. Subsequently, a gathering in celebration of Chuck's life for remembrance and a "tip of the hat" among all family and friends to share memories and stories will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on May 19, 2023 in the event room at Studebaker's Country Restaurant on Route 41, Springfield, OH.

In lieu of flowers, please hug your loved ones and, if prayer leads you to give, contribute to a cause that is important to you in Chuck's name. We hope you will also join his family and friends at the celebration of Chuck's life.