Services for Raymond Dean McElroy, 85, who passed away Thursday morning, April 23, 2015, at the Manning Plaza in Manning, IA, will be held 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at the Carlisle United Methodist Church with burial following in the Palmyra Cemetery, Palmyra, IA. Raymond was born on July 7, 1929, to Ralph and Irene (Halterman) McElroy. He spent his early years growing up on his parent's farm. They then moved to Carlisle and finally settled in Indianola, IA. Raymond graduated from Indianola High School. He married the love of his life, Mary Louise Brockway, on August 20, 1950. To their union three daughters and one son were born. Raymond was a body and fender man for Ramsey Pontiac for over 30 years and other smaller automotive shops before his retirement at age 62. Also during this time, he helped with farming and handling livestock for his father-in-law. Raymond loved being outside and working in his yard and gardens. Feeding and watching the birds became a favorite pastime. He enjoyed wood working and his children and grandchildren have a number of things he has made over the years. Raymond loved to read and in his later years could be caught watching a really "good" television show. He and Mary Louise were able to travel a lot and were able to visit all 48 contiguous states. He always liked to share stories from those trips. Raymond also really enjoyed family gatherings. He was a member of the Carlisle United Methodist Church for over 40 years. Raymond is survived by his children; Mary Rae McElroy of Des Moines, Sheryl (Rick) Dammann of Manning, Joyce (Michael) Massey of Manning and Larry (Lisa Bubon) McElroy of Central Islip, NY; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister-in-law; Dianna McElroy; three nephews; one niece; and one cousin. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Louise, his parents, brother, Edwin, and baby sister, Joylyn. Visitation will be held 5 to 7 p.m., Monday, April 27 at Overton Funeral Home where family will be present to greet friends. Memorials may be made to the Carlisle United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.overtonfunerals.com.