Gary Raymond

Gary Lynn Raymond of Ada, Michigan, age 80, entered into everlasting life with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, October 3, 2015. Gary was born in Lansing, Michigan on April 6, 1935 and graduated from Haslett High School. He earned three degrees at Michigan State University including Education Specialist. He was preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 58 years, Janice Raymond, and his parents, Harold and Marjorie Raymond. Gary is survived by his children, John (Tammy) Raymond, Georgia (Craig) Burton, and Gina (Tim) Schierbeek; grandchildren, Jessica, Chelsea, Schae, Ciara, Andi, Kelli, DaeQuan, Elise, Hannah, Sydney, Josh and Ariel; and sister, Joan Talmage. Gary was a faithful follower of Jesus, a loving and devoted husband, a wise and gentle father, a supportive and cheering grandpa, a caring brother, a kind and encouraging uncle, a dear friend and mentor to many and a lifelong Michigan State Spartan fan. Gary impacted many people throughout Michigan through his teaching and marriage ministry with his wife, Jan. His vocational pursuits and personal impact on others began in education in Montague, Lansing, and Grand Rapids, and then continued with a 12-year career at Cornerstone University (aka GRBC) where he was athletic director, coach, dean of students, counselor and professor and volunteered in many roles at Northland Baptist Church. After getting his Ed.S. degree at MSU in 1981, he moved into the role of pastor at Haslett Baptist Church, then spent over 15 years at Bella Vista Church beginning in 1985, with a few years in between at First Presbyterian in Elk Rapids. He then spent his retired years as a volunteer at Ada Bible Church and North Kent Service Center. He was also honored to be selected into the Cornerstone University Athletics Hall of Honor in 2006. A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 16, 2015 at Ada Bible Church, 3869 Knapp St., Grand Rapids, MI 49525. Pastor John Frye will be officiating. The family will greet relatives and friends on Thursday, October 15 from 5-8 pm at Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Dr. NE, Belmont and one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers please consider memorial donations to the North Kent Service Center. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Gary L. Raymond please visit our Sympathy Store.