Lewis Raymond Sterner, "Ray," age 92, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, at The Pearl Senior Living in Lewisville, Texas.

He was born on August 19, 1933, in Murdo, South Dakota, the son of Lewis D. and Ila Louise Sterner.

Ray courageously served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, which included the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He achieved the rank of Senior Master Sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, along with 4 additional medals and numerous awards and recognition throughout his distinguished career. He retired from the Air Force in 1971.

Following his military service, Ray moved with his wife and family to Shreveport, Louisiana. He worked for Sears as a television and electronics technician for 12 years before joining General Motors as an electrician, from which he retired in 1995 at the age of 62.

Ray was married for 65 years to the love of his life, Margie Jackson Sterner. Together they traveled and lived across the United States, Japan, and Okinawa during their Air Force years. They loved making memories with trips to Orange Beach and weekend getaways throughout their marriage. A man of faith, Ray was a member of the Methodist Church.

In his later years, Ray enjoyed fishing and metal detecting, searching for coins and relics. He moved to Texas in 2014, where he became an enthusiastic Texas Rangers fan.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, wife Margie, son Steven, and sisters Elaine Miller and Hazel Nohrenberg. He is survived by brothers Edward and Donald, daughter Karen Lillie and her husband Matt, and daughter-in-law Donna Sterner. He leaves behind 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, and he was extremely proud to be a great-grandfather.

He was a faithful provider and an exemplary airman. His love and service to his country will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered by his family.

A memorial service will be held at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas on May 27th at 10am. 

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation.