Ernest Ray Rothe, 79, peacefully passed away at his home on May 12, 2020, surrounded by his family.  Ray was born on November 2, 1940, in Lehi, Utah, to Ernest and Ruth Rothe.  He was the oldest of 6 children and spent his childhood being raised on West Mountain.

Ray graduated from Payson High School in 1959.  In 1960, he married the love of his life, Mary Jean, on April 14, 1960, in the Manti Temple.  Together they started their family and raised 2 sons and 5 daughters.

Ray was a farmer and showed the value of hard work through his example.  He worked for Highline Canal for over 30 years.  He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in various callings throughout his life.

Ray loved the outdoors.  He especially loved Payson Canyon.  He loved hunting, fishing, riding horses, and collecting antiques.  While he loved the outdoors, his greatest love was his family.

Ray is survived by: his sweetheart, Jeanie Rothe; his 7 children: Raelyn Taylor (Taylorsville, UT); Stewart Rothe (Orem, UT); Blaine Rothe (Providence, UT); Sharon (Dan) Jackson (Genola, UT); Cheril (Rodney) Baum (St. George, UT); Stephanie Herbert (Genola, UT); and Kim (Erik) Stewart (Providence, UT);  his 12 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by 2 brothers, 2 sisters, and his best friend, Melvin Meredith.  He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother; a son in-law, Frank Taylor; and grandsons, Laith Rothe and Mason Herbert.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2020, at 2 p.m. at the Payson City Cemetery.  A visitation for friends will be held from 12-1 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2020, at the Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah.