HARDWICK – Raymond Geoffrey “Ray” Salls Jr., 82, of Hardwick, passed away peacefully, on November 16, at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative & Hospice Care in Lebanon, N.H., surrounded by his loving family.
Ray was born on November 2, 1943, in Sheldon, the son of Raymond Geoffrey Salls Sr, and Mary (Gamble) Salls. He graduated from Cabot High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era.
Following his service, Ray built a long and successful 37-year career at IBM. On April 2, 1966, he married the love of his life, Sharyn Alice Smith. Together, they shared nearly 60 wonderful years of marriage and built a warm and loving home for their three daughters.
Ray lived a full and active life. He enjoyed fishing, playing horseshoes, four-wheeling, hunting and golfing. More than anything, he treasured time spent with his family, his daughters, his cherished granddaughters, and especially his two beloved great-grandsons. He was a member of the Caspian Lake Lodge No. 87 & AM Chapter in Hardwick and served his community as a part-time police specialist. Those who visited his shop knew it as a place of welcome, laughter and good conversation.
Ray and Sharyn endured the heartbreaking loss of their first-born daughter, Lori Ann Salls, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver in 1986. Ray’s strength, devotion, and love of his family carried them through unimaginable grief.
Survivors include his daughters, Shelley Hale (David “Bum”) of East Hardwick and Sherri Wiswell (Michael) of Woodbury; his grandchildren, Mykala Wiswell (Kolin Barclay) of Walden and Kassity (Hale) Marckres (Andrew) of Craftsbury; and his two great-grandsons, Bennett Barclay and Wyatt Marckres.
Ray was predeceased by his loving wife of 59 years, Sharyn, on September 4, 2025; his parents Raymond and Mary Salls Sr.; and his daughter Lori Ann Salls.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many people who enjoyed visiting his shop and sharing stories over the years.
Visiting hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5, at Northern Vermont Funeral Home, 60 Elm Street, Hardwick.
Spring graveside services will be private at the convenience of his family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to: Jack Byrne Center for Palliative & Hospice Care, 154 Hitchcock Loop Road, Lebanon, NH 03766.
Arrangements are in the care of Northern Vermont Funeral Service, Hardwick. Online condolences are welcomed at: northernvermontfuneralservice.com
