Ray L. Chesbro

With family members at his side, Ray Lynn Chesbro transitioned back into Light on September 18, 2025.

Born to Ray T. Chesbro and Eileen M. Audas, on October 4, 1949, in Syracuse, New York, he was affectionately known as “Lynn” to the family. With his younger brother Scott and his older brother Gary, they spent much of their childhood playing with their cousins, working on the family farms – milking cows, baling hay, tending to crops - and getting into the occasional mischief.

After surviving his childhood with his brothers, his dependable work ethic led him to employment at National Grid. This service allowed his wife, Eleanor (Lapchenko), to stay home to care for his two daughters, Jennifer Lynn and Joanne Marie. A devoted family man, Ray spent his time biking, roller skating, fishing, bowling, boating, hunting, snowmobiling, racing, and skiing with his two girls over the years. He finally retired from National Grid after nearly 30 years, following his retirement from supermodified racing. Seeing his dream come true to race a supermodified at Oswego Speedway, he handed the gloves over to his daughter Jennifer who shared the same dream.

Upon his retirement, he never failed to remain devoted to his family. He continued to support his wife Eleanor and now had four grandchildren – Sabrina, Kenneth, Bryanna, and Lydia - to shower his love upon. He was now attending youth soccer games and more school concerts. The same hobbies he shared with his girls he shared with his grandchildren. Because he still had more love to give, he was blessed with becoming a great-grandfather. He warmly welcomed Dawson and Luciano into his heart and life. His marriage to Eleanor “Ellie” of 52 years has left a legacy that will continue on.

With his warm, caring heart and his gentle spirit, Ray touched the hearts of all that crossed paths with him over the course of his life.

All are welcome to join his family in remembering and honoring this great man who was a strong spirit of life and love. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11:00 am at Foster Funeral Home, 910 Fay Street, Fulton, NY with a burial to immediately follow in Pennellville Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1:00 pm at the Volney Fire Hall, 3002 State Route 3, Fulton, NY. All family and friends are welcome to attend any of the ceremonies.

One of Ray’s pleasures was feeding and watching the birds and deer. He also took great care in planting the saplings his grandchildren would bring him, measuring them as they grew. In continuing with his loving acts towards nature, you may plant a tree in his memory or leave a special message for the family, by visiting www.fosterfuneralhome.com.