Raymond Hatfield

Pastor Raymond Lee "Ray" Hatfield of Lake Andes, S.D. and formerly of Buhl, passed away unexpectedly July 9, 2015 at his home in Lake Andes.

Ray was born March 6, 1973 in Jerome, Id. the son of Carl and Marie Hatfield. He attended school and graduated from Clear Lakes Christian Academy in Buhl in 1991. Ray earned a Bachelor's degree in 1996 and a Master's degree in Theology in 1998 at Pensacola Christian College in Pensacola, Florida.

Ray served as pastor in Burley, Rexburg and Victor, Id. He was presently serving on the Yankton Sioux Reservation in Lake Andes. He also taught at Dakota Christian School near Platte, S.D.

He had a big heart and a love for people. He said he was blessed to work with the Native American People. He loved teaching Bible classes and took special interest in each student. Many stated they loved him because he was genuine. Parents expressed appreciation because he not only taught Bible classes, he showed them a personal walk with Jesus. He always had a smile and an encouraging word. He loved Jesus and he loved people. Serving the lord was the most important thing in his life. His joy was seeing someone come to know Jesus as personal savior.

He also enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fishing, smoking and cooking foods. It was nothing for him to show up for the holidays with a myriad of smoked food products, his niece Chelby couldn't wait to try his latest experiment, she was partial to the turkey!

Ray is survived by his parents, Carl and Marie Hatfield; brother, Devin (Krystal) of Rupert; niece, Chelby (Adam) Vogt of Pocatello and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

A memorial service will be 2 p.m., Tuesday, July 21, at the Magic Valley Baptist Church (440 Clear Lakes Road) in Buhl.