Ray Hailey, Jr. passed away peacefully on December 18, 2016 in Overland Park, Kansas. He is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Ombra (Perkins) Hailey. Ray was born July 26, 1923 in Springfield, Mo. He spent most of his early years in Ava, Mo. He then moved Kansas City, MO. where he graduated from East High School. Ray attended Kansas State University and the University of Missouri, Kansas City Dental School, graduating in 1944 with his DDS.
Ray met and married Wilma (Jackie) Jackson in 1944. After graduation, they moved to Denver, CO where Ray was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base. After his discharge, Ray and Jackie made Denver their home for the next 67 years. Ray practiced dentistry and was one of the founding members of the Cody Dental Group. Upon retiring they wintered in Manzanillo, Mexico.
Ray grew up playing the Coronet and worked his way through college and dental school playing in local Jazz bands. Ray loved to play tennis and golf and was a founding member of the Valley Country Club. Ray also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends. Ray was active in many professional Dental Organizations and served as president of both the Denver Dental Association and Colorado Dental Association. He had a big heart and was always willing to offer counsel, solve problems and support those in need.
Ray loved his wife of 72 years, his entire family and doted on his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ray is survived by his wife Wilma (Jackie), daughter Leigh Kieffer (Lee McMillan), son Mark Hailey (Jackie), grandchildren Jason Kieffer (Shannon), Kendra Hailey, Clinton Hailey (Katie) and Michael Hailey (Brittney) and two great grandchildren, Brayden and Hailey Kieffer. He is also survived by his beloved sister Betty Crooker (Jim) and nephews Greg Crooker(Laura), Chris Crooker (Sheri) and Shaun Crooker.
Private service pending.