Raymond E. Capots 1937-2025

Raymond was born Sept. 14, 1937, in Youngstown, to Louis Raymond Capots and Anne Patrone Capots.

He attended Boardman Schools, after which he proudly joined the United States Army before beginning his college education.

Raymond lived a life shaped by passion, discipline and generosity. He loved carpentry, drumming, baseball, Ohio State athletics and especially the OSU Marching Band — a source of pride and joy throughout his life. A gifted athlete, Ray played baseball, and his talent was recognized when he was approached by a scout from the Cleveland Indians — an achievement he carried with quiet pride.

Those who knew Ray remember not only his talents but also his warm hospitality, steady character and lifelong commitment to serving others. He was a true patriot.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University and later completed a master’s degree in criminology at Xavier University in Cincinnati.

Ray dedicated his professional life to public service. He began his career at the Mahoning County Courthouse, working as a juvenile parole officer, a role he approached with deep compassion and integrity. His commitment and leadership eventually led him to serve as chairman of the Ohio Parole Board, where he was widely respected for his fairness and dedication to justice.

Prior to his work in the courts, Ray shared his love of music by teaching drumming at McKelvey’s. Teaching, mentoring and encouraging others — especially young musicians — brought him great fulfillment.

His hobbies included woodworking and carpentry. He was a master craftsman. Ray was an avid Frank Sinatra fan, an Ohio State Buckeye to the core and a Handel’s Ice Cream connoisseur.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Raymond Capots and Anne Patrone Capots; his older brother, Louis Capots; and his younger sister, Judy Capots Watkins.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 57 years, Carol Craven Capots, whom he met at the Mahoning County Courthouse; and his nephews, Nick and Becky Watkins, Rick and Susan Watkins, and Danny and Belinda Capots. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law, Jan Craven and Cathleen Craven; brothers-in-law, Thomas (Joan) Craven and Richard (Carol)

Craven; along with his nieces, Jennifer (Chad) Adam and Kristyn Craven Singleton; and nephew, Richard (Amanda) Craven. Ray also leaves behind great-nieces and great-nephews who were his pride and joy.

A funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at St. Peter St. Joan of Arc Parish, 10700 Liberty Road S, Powell OH, 43065.

Visitation for family and friends will begin at 9:30 at the church.

Ray is remembered by his loved ones as a wonderful, compassionate, generous, honest and patient man, who used humor to lighten the mood of every room he entered. He will be greatly missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all those who were blessed to know him.

Local arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi and Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Raymond’s family.

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