Ray Summerlin

Ray Osmond Summerlin, of Beaver Crossing, passed away on May 22, 2026, in Lincoln NE. He was born on January 20, 1942, in Bear Creek, Texas, to Sidney and Ila Summerlin. Ray grew up in Texas before moving to Nebraska in 1967. He often fondly recounted memories of his Texas roots while embracing the tranquility and simplicity of life in Nebraska. A man of profound wisdom, Ray lived his life with the understanding that life is about the journey itself and the experiences shared along the way.

Ray dedicated decades of his career to serving as a Customer Service Specialist in the medical products industry. His work reflected his unwavering commitment to helping others, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and superiors alike. Yet it was during his retirement years in Beaver Crossing, Nebraska, that Ray truly found his greatest joy. He cherished life’s simple pleasures — fishing, boating, camping, and cheering on his beloved Husker football team.

Ray was a devoted husband to Eleonor Meek, whom he married in Seward, Nebraska, on July 11, 2024.

Ray is survived by his wife Eleanor; son Richard (Thaynn) Summerlin, daughters Denise Blazek, Cheryl (Lavern) Engelman, Jodi (Mark) Royal; 13 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; and brothers George (Lily) Summerlin and Roger (Karen) Summerlin.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Nell Mikesell, 2 great grandsons: Isaiah Baehr, Greyson Willey, and 1 granddaughter Ashley Baehr.

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. with family greeting and receiving friends and relatives from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. CDT at Lauber Funeral & Cremation Services – Friend, 814 Maple Street, Friend, Nebraska 68359.

Funeral services will follow on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. CDT at the same location. A graveside service will be held later that day at 12:15 p.m. CDT at Beaver Crossing Cemetery, 846–860 Elm Street, Beaver Crossing, Nebraska 68313.

The Funeral Service will be livestreamed. Please go to the Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services Facebook site ten minutes prior to the service to tune in. You may need to follow our Facebook page to be able to view the livestream.

Memorials are to be given to the family for a future designation.