Ray D. Beaman

Ray D. Beaman, 74, of Orlando, Fla., formerly of Brazil, died unexpectedly Aug. 17, 2016 in Orlando, due to heart issues.

He was born June 22, 1942 in Greencastle, the son of Ralph "Tarz" Beaman and Devona Miller Beaman.

He graduated from Greencastle High School, Class of 1960.

He was very active in sports in high school, excelling in basketball and softball. He also played football. Later in life he was an avid golfer. As a young man, he started coming to Brazil to play baseball at Roy Brann Ballfield. During this time, he met lifelong friends, whom he still remained close to through the years.

As a young man, Ray entered into the Army National Guard, serving from 1966-71.

Although he lived in Florida for many years, he still thought of Brazil as home. He enjoyed his visits to Brazil, staying with Tanya and Brent, and getting to spend time with Kade and his friends. He treasured his time in Florida as well, with his son Larry, his sister Pam and extended family.

Ray worked for IBM in Greencastle and later was transferred to IBM at Boca Raton. He retired at the age of 45, but always kept busy working at golf courses, including PGA National, Breakers West in Florida and Forest Park in Brazil.

Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Tanya and Brent Baker of Brazil; stepson, Larry Wexler, DVM and wife Megan of Ocala, Fla.; sister, Pam Payne of Orlando; niece, Brooke Gregory (Mark), nephew Chad Payne (Cyndi); stepdaughter, Kim Mills and husband Chris of Coral Springs, Fla.; grandchildren Kade Baker and wife Shelby of Brazil, Annabelle Wexler, Lucy Wexler, Jordan Mills, and Sydney Mills; great-nieces and great-nephews, Brock, Carsyn, Camden, Channing and Collins.

He also had a close group of friends and golfing buddies in Brazil and Orlando that he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother-in-law, Steve Payne.

At his request, cremation was chosen. A memorial gathering of family and friends to celebrate Ray's life, will be held 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 at Lawson-Miller Chapel, 1702 E. National Ave., Brazil. A final toast to Ray will be at 7:30 p.m.

If friends so desire, donations may be made to the YMCA, Youth Programs, 225 E. Kruzan, Brazil, IN 47834.

On line messages of condolence at www.lawson-millerchapel.com.