Leslie Ray Ely, 81, of St. Clair passed away Thursday, October 10, 2019 at his home.

Mr. Ely, son of the late Russell Ely and wife Helen (Reed) was born December 4, 1937 in St. Clair.

On September 20, 1958 he was united in marriage to Betty Joan Price in Valley Park and to this union five children were born.

Leslie served his country in the United States Navy for four years, receiving an honorable discharge.

He was Baptized by the Jehovah Witness in the 1970's.

He worked as a plant supervisor for Ashland Chemical Company where he retired.

Mr. Ely was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Helen Ely; two brothers, infant Leroy Ely and Leonard Ely; one grandchild, Krista Masterson.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Joan Ely of St. Clair; five children, Lisa Carlson and husband Dave of St. Clair, Lois Masterson and husband Pat of Rolla, Loti Barker and husband Scott of Higden, AR, Lena Rickman and husband Tom of Higden, AR and Lorn Ely and wife Elsa of Houston, TX; two sisters, Lola Wiese of Sullivan and Loretta Hinson and husband Robert of St. Clair; nine grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.

Memorial donations to Worldwide Work of Jehovah Witness are preferred.