Nathaniel James Ray

Nathaniel James Ray, age 29 of Defiance, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 in Defiance.   
  
He was born on July 18, 1996 to Donovan and Christina (Archambeault) Ray in Defiance, Ohio. Nate was a 2015 graduate of Defiance High School. He loved baseball and enjoyed golfing and playing corn hole with his brothers. Nate was a huge fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He loved spending time with his daughters, taking them to Independence Dam and playing catch and basketball. He will be greatly missed by his family and many good friends.
  
Nate is survived by his loving parents, Christina and Donovan Ray, Sr. of Defiance, his daughters, Ellie Ray and Harlyn Ray of Defiance, and his siblings, Justin (Crystal Reyna) Salaz of Defiance, Regina Salaz of Chicago, IL, Pedro Salaz and Zackary Ray, both of Defiance, Donovan (Hannah) Ray of Oakwood, OH, and Taylor (Jason) Michel of Holgate, OH. He also leaves behind his grandfathers, Roger Ray of Defiance and Chico Arroyo of Napoleon, OH, and many nieces and nephews. 
  
He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Connie Mazur and Linda Ray.
  
All services for Nate will be private. Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements. 
  
Memorials are suggested to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.
  

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