Ronald A Negray , February 26, 1930 — November 08, 2018

Ron Negray, 88, of New Franklin, passed away peacefully, after a brief illness on November 8, 2018. Ron was born in Akron to Stephen and Mary Negray and graduated from Garfield High School. Ron was an outstanding high school athlete.

He attended Kent State University after high school for a brief time to play baseball. Ron left Kent State to pursue a professional baseball career and played for the Brooklyn/LA Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies from 1952-1958, and was with the Dodgers the first season they moved to Los Angeles in 1958. Ron loved to tell stories about his baseball experiences, including the opportunity to play with the baseball legends, Jackie Robinson and Roy Campanella, and his adventures during the times he played “winter ball” in Cuba, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.

After leaving the Major League, Ron played Minor League baseball for another five years, and in 1963 left baseball to start a sales career selling athletic supplies and uniforms to high schools, colleges, and professional teams, until his retirement. Ron was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Shelly Koehl Negray; and his son, Ronnie. A special thanks to Nick Bollas of the New Franklin Police Department and the nurses and doctors at Summa Hospital for the care they provided Ron in his final days.

Per Ron’s request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. The family will hold a private graveside service. Donations in Ron’s memory may be sent to Manchester Athletics, c/o Manchester High School or The Chapel.

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