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