Ray Mattingly

The evening of July 16th Ray Mattingly passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving wife and children. Ray was born in Bentonville on June 14, 1928 to Jim and Mattie Mattingly. He is survived by his wife, Betty, of 68 years and three sons - Randy, Paul and Bob, a daughter - Sherryl, 11 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Terry. Ray and Betty spent the first seven years of their marriage in Wichita, Kan., where he worked at Beech Aircraft. After saving enough money, they returned to Bentonville and bought their present farm. Ray spent the next 34 years working at Bemco Inc. but his great passion in life was working as a chicken and cattle farmer with his constant companion, Betty. He was devoted to her and took great pleasure in his farms, animals, and pets. In later years their dog Pepe was a source of great comfort. His children remember their father as a man who worked hard and always sacrificed his needs for those of others. No matter the hardships he endured - he never complained. In his final battle with cancer, Ray was fortunate to be attended in his home by Circle of Life Hospice. Their staff made a difficult time easier for him and his family. Ray was a man whose loving smile and presence will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Services will be private but contributions to Circle of Life Hospice would give him great joy. Arrangements by Benton County Funeral Home, 306 N. 4th, Rogers. Online condolences to www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com.