Ray Steely

Raymond James “Ray” Steely, 83, of Maumee, OH passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025. Born February 4, 1942, Ray grew up in Garfield Heights, Ohio, where he discovered his lifelong love of athletics. He was a dedicated wrestler throughout high school and continued competing in college while attending Bowling Green State University.

It was at Bowling Green where Ray met Jackie, the woman who would become the love of his life and his partner for 42 years. Their relationship began during his college years and grew into a strong, steady foundation that supported him throughout his personal life, coaching career, and into fatherhood and beyond.

After graduating, Ray began his long career as a physical education teacher at Rogers High School in Toledo, Ohio. Wrestling was his true passion and primary sport, and for more than 30 years he poured himself into coaching the Rogers wrestling program. While he spent a few seasons assisting with football, baseball, softball, and track, it was on the wrestling mat where his impact was unmatched and where generations of athletes came to know his quiet strength, steady guidance, and unwavering belief in their potential. Later in life, he also enjoyed coaching his grandsons in hockey.

A gifted teacher and mentor, Ray recognized potential in students long before they recognized it in themselves. He inspired confidence not through many words, but through calm leadership, a raised eyebrow, a steady presence, and the assurance that their preparation had made them ready. He brought together students from every background and shaped them into teams built on discipline, pride, and work ethic. Many former wrestlers credit him not only for athletic success, but for the life direction his influence provided—some even choosing careers in education and coaching because of him.

Ray’s athletic and coaching influence were recognized across the state. He is an honored member of: The Ohio State High School Hall of Fame, The Ohio State Wrestling Hall of Fame, The Toledo City League Hall of Fame, The inaugural class of the Robert S. Rogers High School Athletic Hall of Fame

Beyond the gym, Ray was a lifelong sailor and proud member of the Perrysburg Boat Club for many years. He spent countless days navigating the Maumee River and Lake Erie, raced Sunfish, and captained larger boats across the region and beyond. Ray participated in and won awards in many regattas throughout his sailing career, including major events such as the ILYA Bay Week Regatta. He also chartered in the British Virgin Islands, always happiest at the helm with wind in the sails, charting a course toward something new. Some of his greatest joy came from sharing these experiences with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—teaching them to sail, letting them take the helm, enjoying competitive racing, and passing on his love for the freedom, focus, and calm of the open water.

After Jackie’s passing, Ray later found companionship with Carolyn Nagy, with whom he shared many years of travel and adventure. Together, they explored numerous countries—including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ecuador, Peru, and several others throughout South America—journeys that brought renewed joy, curiosity, and connection into his life.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Jackie; his parents, Newton and Stella Steely; and his brother, Robert Steely. He is survived by his daughters, Stacie Steely and Donna (Ken) Stanford; grandsons Brennan, Taylor, Connor, and Blake Stanford; granddaughter Danielle (Aaron) King; great-grandchildren Jeremy, Cassidy, and PJ; granddaughter Jessica Reffner; and great-grandchildren Eli and Zoe. He leaves behind not only a family who adored him, but generations of former students and athletes shaped by his quiet strength, kindness, and steadfast belief in what they could become.

Coach, teacher, sailor, mentor, lifelong athlete, and devoted family man—Ray Steely lived a life defined by purpose, generosity, and a steady dedication to helping others find their way. He will be profoundly missed.

Friends and loved ones are invited to celebrate Ray’s life at Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home, 501 Conant St., Maumee, OH 43537, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A private family service will follow at 7:00 PM. Memorial contributions in Ray’s name may be directed to Hospice of Northwest Ohio