Ishmael Sturgill Obituary

Ishmael Ray Sturgill
1954-2025
"Life's a lot like baseball-he knew when to step up, when to stand back, and how to bring everyone home."
Ishmael Ray Sturgill, 70, of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on July 7, 2025.
Ishmael Ray Sturgill, affectionately known as Ray, was born on a warm summer's day on July 22, 1954. Ray was known for his willingness to help and his rare ability to fix just about anything, whether it was a broken appliance, a busted pipe, or a tough moment in life. If something was broken, Ray would find a way to make it work. He didn't hesitate to step in when someone needed a hand, and he was the kind of person others knew they could count on because he showed up every time. Ray was a familiar face at Fannin Park AABC, where he was the former president, giving his time to support youth baseball and help keep the fields running. Ray spent many summers coaching his sons there and soaking up the joy he found in the game and his presence there was constant. The contributions Ray made to the ballpark were timeless. Ray was a member of Durbin Church of the Nazarene, where he found strength and fellowship in his faith.
Ray will be remembered as a man who didn't seek attention but made a difference every single day. Through his hands, his heart, and his quiet, constant presence, he built a legacy of service, love, and dependability. He may be gone from our sight, but the imprint he left on those who knew and loved him will endure always.
For nearly 51 years, Ray walked through life hand in hand with his beloved wife, Maudie Sturgill, building a life rooted in faith, hard work, and unwavering commitment. Together, they raised a family, weathered storms, and found joy in the everyday.
Ray was also a proud and loving grandfather to Carsyn Sturgill, Henry Sturgill, and Hudson Sturgill-who were the absolute light of his life. He lit up around them, and his love for his grandkids was unmatched. He never missed a chance to be there for them, whether it was cheering from the sidelines or just being present in the everyday moments that mattered most.
He leaves behind two sons of whom carry on his work ethic and determination, Cody Sturgill and his wife Monica of Ashland, KY and Odis Sturgill and his wife Kaylee also of Ashland, KY, Along with countless nieces and nephews he cared deeply for. Ray is enjoying a Heavenly reunion with his beloved son Steven, his mother Joyce Moore, and his brothers David Steward and Michael Rankin.
A funeral service to honor the life of Ray will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Durbin Church of the Nazarene, located at 28410 US- 23, Catlettsburg, KY, beginning at 4pm with Pastor Chad Stevens and Pastor Victor Messer officiating. Visitation for friends and family will take place prior to the service from 2pm until service time. Ray will be laid to rest following the service at Stevens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Boyd Catlettsburg Little League at PO Box 8, Catlettsburg, Ky 41129.
Online condolences may be sent to the family from our website at kilgorecollierfuneralhome.com or on Facebook at Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home.
Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Ishmael Ray Sturgill.
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