RAYMOND THOMAS SHARPLESS

Raymond Thomas Sharpless Jr., 93, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at Belton Regional Hospital surrounded by family.

Ray was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Laverne and Raymond T. Sharpless Sr. on August 13, 1932. He joined the Air Force in 1955 and served as a radio operator and computer programmer for more than 20 years. He then worked at Commerce Bank, where he helped pioneer the foundations for modern credit card usage while earning both his bachelor's and master's degrees in business administration from Rockhurst University. His work was impactful and significant.

Ray was a world traveler who lived in many places, including Spain, England, Japan, and Iceland. He retired from the workforce in 1994 and enjoyed traveling, bowling, reading, playing pool, and teaching martial arts, including Tae Kwon Do. His curiosity and thirst for knowledge was unending, and he always sought ways to learn and improve at the things he loved. He took lessons in a variety of subjects and hobbies.

He also enjoyed riding horses during trips to Colorado, playing chess, eating Kathy's cookies, and petting cats. Ray will be remembered for his curiosity, intelligence, and the joy he found in life and family.

Ray is survived by his wife, Sally; his sons John Sharpless (Bonnie), Chris Sharpless (Tricia), and Robert Sharpless (Ilona); and his stepdaughters Cynthia Heng (Julio), Kathleen Cordry (John), and Teresa Grogan. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Laverne and Raymond Sharpless; his brothers David and Rick Sharpless; and his granddaughter Kaitlyn Grogan.

The family will hold a private ceremony to celebrate Ray's life. We encourage others to celebrate Ray by having a nice glass of Bordeaux and telling a joke with their family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ray's memory to the American Cancer Society or HELP Humane Society of Cats.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Inc., Raymore, Missouri 816.322.5278