Raymond "Ray" James Beers

Raymond “Ray” James Beers, age 87, of Meridian, Idaho, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025.

Born on May 29, 1938, in rural Pennsylvania, Ray was the youngest of seven siblings. His life was marked by deep faith, quiet strength, and a profound appreciation for the simple joys that made each day meaningful.

Ray graduated from high school near his childhood home and went on to serve honorably in the United States Air Force. His service took him to locations including Texas, Canada, Hawaii, and Washington. It was during this time that Ray discovered what he would later call his greatest treasure—his membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

While living in Moses Lake, Washington, Ray met his beautiful wife, Ardis Merkley. They were married on April 7, 1965, in the Idaho Falls Temple and soon moved to California, where Ray pursued a career in aircraft maintenance and logistics. Together, Ray and Ardis raised two sons: Gregory, born in 1966, and Matthew, born in 1968.

Ray’s career with the Boeing Company, combined with Ardis’ adventurous spirit, led the family to live abroad in Iran and Saudi Arabia before eventually settling in Meridian, Idaho. Wherever life took them, Ray remained a devoted and faithful member of his church.

His commitment to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was the cornerstone of his life. He found lasting friendships and spiritual fulfillment within his ward family, especially through the companionship of dear friends Ed Thompson and Phil Montgomery. Ray often said that his church community was his greatest source of comfort and joy, and he remained loyal to that fellowship throughout his life.

Ray also had a lifelong passion for cars. For him, they represented more than transportation—they were symbols of freedom, adventure, and the thrill of the open road. He found joy in every engine’s hum and every journey taken behind the wheel.

Known for his gentle humor and thoughtful gestures, Ray brought light to those around him. He loved surprising his grandchildren with birthday balloons and always had a dad joke ready to share. His fondness for pumpkin pie was legendary—no holiday, church picnic, or potluck felt complete without a generous slice.

Ray is survived by his son Gregory (Greg) Beers and daughter-in-law Amy, and granddaughters Heidi and Emelia; his son Matthew (Matt) Beers and daughter-in-law Michelle, along with grandchildren Brooke, Jesse, Spencer, Ethan, Grayson, and Cameron. He also leaves behind numerous and beloved nieces, nephews, and many great-nieces and nephews who will remember him with love and admiration.

A funeral service will be held, 11:00 am, Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Bowman Funeral Parlor, 10254 W. Carlton Bay Dr., Garden City, Idaho with a public viewing beginning at 10:00 am.

A committal service will be held, 1:00 pm, Thursday, August 28, 2025 at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 10100 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Boise, Idaho.

Services are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor, Garden City, Idaho.