Raymond G. Friend

Raymond G. Friend, age 84, of Seymour, passed away peacefully late Monday evening, September 15, 2025, at Columbus Regional Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Friend was baptized in Christ and confirmed in faith on March 12, 1967, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Seymour, marking the beginning of his Christian faith and lifelong membership there. Throughout the years, he faithfully served in many roles, including Elder, Sunday School teacher, Redeemer’s representative on the Immanuel Lutheran School Board, and the Jackson County Mission Federation. He was also an active participant in the Life Light Bible study group at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Raymond was a man of strong faith and his love for the Holy Scriptures was evident in his daily studies and devotion. Raymond held a variety of roles throughout his career, including auto mechanic, draftsman, tool designer, foundry tooling and pattern buyer, engineering liaison, purchasing agent, commodity manager, and consultant. He retired from Cummins Engine Co. in 1994. Throughout his life, he lived in Kentucky, Florida, and Missouri, but spent most of his years in Indiana. Raymond’s greatest love and joy in life was spending time with his beloved wife, Neila, his sons and their families, his relatives and friends, and with all members of Christ’s Church on earth. He especially enjoyed being called “Poppy” by his grandchildren and delighted in making special candy runs with them and for them. He also had a passion for old cars, NASCAR and drag racing, and traveling across the United States. Raymond loved connecting with others and was well known for his dry sense of humor and engaging conversations. He lived his faith with hope and anticipation, looking forward to eternity with God the Father, Jesus the Son, the Holy Spirit, the angels, and all the saints in Heaven. Born on January 14, 1941, in Wheelwright, Kentucky, Raymond was the son of Spencer and Francis (Marcum) Friend, both of whom preceded him in death. On July 13, 1963, he married Neila Jean Donnells, and she survives in Seymour. Survivors also include two sons: Victor Kevin (Carolyn) Friend of Columbus, and Mark Allen (LeeAnn) Friend of Seymour; grandchildren: Riley (Craig) Stuckwisch, Alexandra (K.J.) McCarter, Delaney (Kyle) Tennille, Zachary (fiancé Katie Copetas) Friend, Samuel Friend, and Luke Friend; great-grandsons: Hayes Stuckwisch and Oliver Stuckwisch; sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Bill Chasteen; brother and sister-in-law, Keith and Debra Friend; and sister-in-law, Jodie Friend. Raymond was also preceded in death by one brother, Rodney Friend. Funeral services for Raymond G. Friend will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Seymour, with Pastor Andrew J. Currao and Pastor Zachary R. Huffman officiating. Friends may call from 12:00 noon until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Interment will follow at Riverview Cemetery, Seymour. Memorials may be given to Redeemer Lutheran Church Building Fund or the Redeemer Lutheran Church Foundation. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff of Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc. Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com

Raymond G. Friend

January 14, 1941 - September 15, 2025