William "Ray" Howcroft

HOWCROFT, William Raymond beloved husband of the late Jeanne Howcroft.

Loving father of Mike (Patsy) Howcroft, Kelley Reynolds, Kevin (Barbara Rellehan) Howcroft, Keith (Anita) Howcroft and the late Kim and Glenn Howcroft.

Cherished grandfather of Brian (Justin), Kasey (Daniel), Karen (Josh) and Ben Reynolds; Kathleen (Sheldon) Eubanks; Daniel, Elizabeth, Tim and Chris Howcroft; Ethan (Patty) Witt; Kerry (Jamie) Slater and Chloe (Jay) Weinberg.

Adoring great grandfather of William, Emma, Gus, Oscar, Maggie, Eleanor and Baby Eubanks.  Preceded in death by his parents Alma Howcroft and Helen (Zink) Talbot.

Ray lived a life filled with adventure and opportunities that many could only have dreamed of. Loyalty to his country called in 1943 when he enlisted with the US Army, saving countless lives as a Medic during WWII.

After the war, Ray decided he wanted to experience every aspect of the restaurant industry, working as a server, manager and owner; deciding that being a table side chef was his true calling. Sadly (but historically) Ray was also present at the Supper Club the night of Beverly Hills fire in 1978. Showing his true heroism by returning time after time to the fire, he was once again, able to save countless lives.

While Ray enjoyed being recognized as an obvious Hero to his friends and family, it became official when Ray was awarded the French Medal of Honor and Knighted for his actions during WWII. Being the humble man that he was, Ray was now content being referred to as Sir Grandpa.

Sadly, Ray passed away on Thursday August 3, 2023 at age 98. 

Please join us in remembering and celebrating this extraordinary man.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 at St. Vivian Church, 7600 Winton Road, 45224 from 10 AM until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM.

Donations may be made in Ray’s memory to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital or Alzheimer’s Association.

Condolences at hodappfuneralhome.com