Donald "Ray" Pilling, 75, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, in Columbia City IN. He was born in Fort Wayne, IN to the late Vernon and Mary Pilling and was blessed to have the late Lloyd and Lois Grimes as foster parents.
Ray loved being outdoors and especially enjoyed spending his summers on the lake where he would go for pontoon rides and drive around in his golf cart. He loved the Lord and spending time with his church family. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. Above all, he had a deep love his family including his beloved wife, kids, and grandkids.
Ray is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marilyn Pilling; two children, Jeni (Zach) Miller, and David Pilling; three grandsons, Jacob & Jackson Miller, and Landon Pilling; sisters, Olive Gautier, Mary (Bob) Howey; brother, Gary (Becky) Pilling Sr., sister-in-law, Phyllis Pilling; and foster brothers and sisters, Linda (George) Smith, Danny (Vickie) Grimes, Rick (Jayne) Grimes, Bob (Carol) Grimes, Randy Grimes, Greg (Deb) Grimes, and Cathy McNeil. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Paul, Vernon Jr., Howard, John, Earnest, and Jimmy.
A funeral service will take place at 4 pm on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services (6557 N. Clinton Street) with visitation from 2 pm until the service. Memorial donations may be given to Helmer Community Church.