Harry Ray Word, age 70 of Salem, passed away on Friday, October 11, 2025, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.

Harry was born on January 10, 1955, in Salem, Illinois, the son of Harry D. and Sadie Sue (Hughes) Word. He married Terry (Rollinson) Word on May 25, 1974, at the First Baptist Church in Salem and together they shared 51 years united in marriage.

Survivors include his wife, Terry of Salem; children, Jeremy Word and wife Beth of Springfield, Dustin Word and wife Amy of Gulf Shores, AL; and Shanda Word Runkle and husband Jared of Salem; grandchildren, Clayton Word, Hayley Word , Layla Word, Gage Hill, Aliviah Word, and Avery Runkle; great grandchild, Ellie Hill; sister, Linda Word of Baldwin, Missouri; along with several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Sadie; his grandmother, Mary Hughes; and a grandchild, Leland Ross Runkle.

Harry worked for several years as a conductor on the Union Pacific Railroad. He was also the owner of Word’s Westgate Carwash and Detailing, and worked as a car salesman. He was a member of the Salem First Baptist Church.

Harry deeply loved his family and grandchildren. He had a gift for connecting with people and a special way with children. He enjoyed music, football, softball, and water skiing, and was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan.

A Celebration of Life for Harry Ray Word is pending at this time. Memorial contributions can be made to the Salem First Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society and will be received at Crouse Funeral Home who is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and shared memories may be left at www.CrouseFH.com.