Obituaries
Frank Raymond “Ray” Bear, Jr., 74
September 03, 2025
Frank Raymond “Ray” Bear Jr., 74, of Millersville, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home on September 3, 2025, with his loving family by his side. He was the beloved husband of Connie (Woodall) Bear for 45 years, until her death in 2017.
Born in Lancaster, Ray was the son of the late Frank R. Sr. and Shirley M. (Foulke) Bear and spent most of his life in Millersville, Lancaster County.
After graduating from Penn Manor in 1969, Ray earned a degree from York College in 1974 and then spent most of his working life–over 40 years–in the security and fire alarm industry, most recently as president and owner of Choice Security Services.
After his retirement, Ray spent his time enjoying his family, especially his grandchildren, and his many friends. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, boating, camping and traveling and was a member of Puzzle Lake Camping Lodge, Ontario, Canada for over 50 years.
Ray leaves behind his loving daughters Carrie Bowmaster of Lancaster (wife of Bill) and Amanda Greenawalt of Millersville (wife of Kent) and a son, Timothy Shelley of Tivat, Montenegro. Affectionately known as “Poppy,” Ray is survived by his five grandchildren, Topanga Steele (wife of Clayton), Bella Bowmaster, Brian Bowmaster, Cole Bear Greenawalt and Nadezhda Shelley. He also leaves behind his two sisters, Nancy Durner of Simla, Colorado (wife of Larry) and Laura Kline of Millersville (wife of Patrick), and his significant other, Linda Hadley of Middletown and her granddaughter, Phoenix Hadley.
In addition to his parents and spouse, Ray was preceded in death by his daughter, Corinne Shelley.
The family will host an informal gathering from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA 17543, followed by a celebration of life at The Mill at Manor Falls, 380 Old Blue Rock Road, Millersville. Please bring along your favorite “Ray” stories.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray’s memory to Penn Manor Education Foundation, P.O. Box 1001, Millersville, PA 17551
Penn Manor Education Foundation
or Blue Rock Fire Rescue Station 905, 26 East Charlotte Street, Millersville, PA 17551.
Blue Rock Fire Rescue Station 905
Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
September 18, 2025
Carrie and Amanda and family,
I was away and unaware of your loss. It was such a pleasure to get to know Ray and value the time spent with him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I was able to view the informal gathering live this afternoon on Snyder’s Web Page. Sincerely Sue Sheeler
September 18, 2025
Though I never had the privilege of meeting Ray, I can see the kind of person he was through his son, Tim, who taught my boys in Montenegro (Europe). The kindness, integrity, and dedication Tim shows are surely a reflection of the values Ray fostered. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family during this difficult time.
Velibor Kastratovic with family
September 17, 2025
Carrie and Amanda and families
It was a true joy and blessing to know Ray, Connie, Carrie and Amanda in the Millersville Methodist Church on George Street as we grew up and became adults. I will cherish our memories. My sincere sympathy and prayers and most of all love as you journey through your grief.
God Bless, Mary Burger
September 12, 2025
What a terrible loss! Ray was my brother-law and one of my favorite people in my life! He was always easy going and kind and fun. He took wonderful care to my sister, Connie and I couldn’t ask for a better friend and family member. Connie and Ray held the family together. He will be greatly missed. I loved him very much!! Vicky Meenan
September 09, 2025
I know how special Ray and Connie are to my mom, and I have heard so many stories of the impact they have had on her life. Kind and special people who have made all of the difference. I’m so very for the loss of your dad. He was a wonderful man, who will be missed by so many. Hugs and prayers. Melissa Arment Fouts
September 09, 2025
Since I was a child. Ray was known to me as one of the most kind and loving people I’ve ever met. he and his family will always be cherished by me as though they were my own. I pray that by the grace of God, he is reunited with his wife never to suffer again in Jesus name. Rip until we meet again!!!
Loved Always Maurice Edwards
- Visitation
- Thursday, September 18, 2025
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory
- 2421 Willow Street Pike
- Willow Street, Pennsylvania 17585
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