Ray Woll
Granite City | Save
Ray Ted Woll, age 93, of Granite City, Illinois, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, November 14, 2025, at his home, surrounded by love. Ray was born on May 8, 1932, in Edwardsville, Illinois, the beloved son of the late Herman and Ruth (Trout) Woll.
A proud veteran of the Korean War, Ray faithfully served his country in the United States Army. On April 11, 1952, in Santa Maria, California, he married the love of his life, Norma Jean Lee, and together they built a marriage rooted in faith, devotion, and laughter. They shared 73 beautiful years until Norma’s passing on June 1, 2025—an earthly separation only temporary for two hearts so deeply bonded.
Ray retired on April 28, 1990, after 35 years of dedicated work as a utility man on the hot strip at National Steel, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and steady character.
Guided by his Christian faith, Ray found his greatest joy in serving the Lord, studying his Bible, and attending church. His hands were never idle—he delighted in metal detecting, cross-stitching, cooking unforgettable breakfasts, baking his famous apple pies, and enjoying a lively game of High Rollers dice. Yet above all, Ray was a family man. He cherished every gathering, every story shared, and every moment spent spoiling his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
Ray will be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and the deep love he poured into everyone blessed to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his cherished wife, Norma; his sons, Michael, Larry, and Lanny Woll; his stepfather, Jesse Greer; siblings, Verna Webb-Niehaus, Earl Woll, Betty Likert, and John Woll; his granddaughter, Emily Rozell; and his son-in-law, Charlie Hendrix.
He leaves behind a legacy held close in the hearts of his children, Debra Hendrix of Rolla, Missouri; Gregory (Mary) Woll of Granite City, Illinois; Ricky (Michelle) Woll of Collinsville, Illinois; and Kimberly (Jay) Rice of Sedalia, Missouri.
He was a proud grandfather to 36 grandchildren and was blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who will treasure his memory.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, Illinois.
A celebration of Ray’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, also at Irwin Chapel, with Pastor Cathy Crippen officiating. Ray will be laid to rest beside his beloved Norma at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon, Illinois.
In honor of Ray’s service to his country, memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (D.A.V.) and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
