Lester Ray Pulliam

     Lester Ray Pulliam, age 95, of Harrisburg passed away at 8:28 PM on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Saline Care Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

     Ray was born on March 20, 1931, in Eldorado, Illinois to the late Alfred and Nola (Poppins) Pulliam.  On August 25, 1951, he married Wilma Sue Whyte, and she preceded him in death on February 19, 2021.  Ray was a member of McKinley Avenue Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a Deacon on July 27,1980 and designated Deacon Emeritus in May 2022 at McKinley Avenue Baptist Church.  Ray was employed as a car salesman at Buddy Pool Motors for over 40 years.     

    Ray is survived by his son, Donald Ray Pulliam and wife Joni Janelle of Harrisburg, and son, David Wayne Pulliam of West Frankfort; two granddaughters, Dr. Tiffany Paige Pulliam Horn and husband Jason of Haubstadt, Indiana; Jordana Janelle Pulliam Scher and husband Ricky of Somerville, Texas; five great-grandchildren, Jaci Paige Horn, Kendon Michael Horn, Holden Graham Scher, Henry Jude Scher and Isla Janelle Scher.
    In addition to his parents and wife, Wilma, Ray was preceded in death by his brothers Dalton, Denzil, Donald, Stanley and sister Dathen Genet.

    Funeral services for Lester Ray Pulliam will be held at 12 PM, on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Stricklin Funeral Home in Harrisburg.  Reverend Trent Duncan and Reverend Ron Reed will officiate, and burial will follow in Wolf Creek Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 10 AM to 12 PM, on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Stricklin Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions may be made to McKinley Avenue Baptist Church Youth Group and will be received at the funeral home. 

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