Merritt Ray Dimbath's Obituary
LAKELAND – Merritt Ray Dimbath, of Lakeland, FL passed away May 25, 2024 from natural causes. He is now joining his mom and dad in the Church Triumphant.
Ray was the second son of Rev. Merle S. Dimbath and Zella S. Dimbath. He was born on March 27, 1943 while his dad was in his first Church of the Nazarene pastorate in Mason City, Iowa. Ray graduated from Southwest Miami Sr High School then attended the University of Florida, being a proud band member in each. Ray then worked for National Airlines and then 32 years with Northwest Airlines. His stations included Miami, Chicago, Minneapolis, Washington DC, Tampa, and Orlando.
Ray was proud of his German heritage which began with the arrival of his grandfather to the United States in 1892. The family settled in Dayton, Ohio. Ray made several trips to visit family in Germany and research his family’s history. He was a HUGE Gator fan and was the moderator for the online Gator fan chat page “Gator Country.”
Ray loved Jesus and was always at church. He found much condolence in the Christian celebrations and traditional music and hymns. As one of Rays pastors told me “Ray loved his pastors, prayed for them, and inspired us. I have known him for 30 years and he was always kind and a friend. He never failed to offer a positive word following the message…. Even when I did not deserve it.” He firmly embraced Christianity and recognized the importance of his German background which included Martin Luther.
Ray is survived by his older brother, Merle Dimbath, of Stuart Florida, and his younger brother, Paul Dimbath, of Lakeland. He was never married so he had time to enjoy his nieces and nephews. Ray has run the race and fought the good fight. Great job Ray.
On Wednesday, May 29th, viewing will be at Gentry Morrison Funeral Home, 1727 US 98 South, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 PM.
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