Robert Ray Speck, 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 in the community he was born and raised, Taylorsville.

Born in the Taylorsville Community on June 16, 1923, Mr. Speck lived a long, adventurous life and was a veteran of World War II. He served his country as a Marine aboard the USS Indiana (BB-58), a South Dakota-class battleship,  the third ship of the United States Navy named in honor of the 19th state.

A hard-working farmer, he was known for his knowledge of history and world events, his love of family and the community he lived in. He was a man of God and never met a stranger.  He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.  He had charm, charisma and a unique way of telling stories about his childhood and episodes of his military career.  He was a Christian and a long-time member of the Highland Heights Church of Christ.

He was survived by his wife of 20 years, Elizabeth Norene Speck, and son Joel (Bobbie) Speck, step daughters Kim (John) Bryan, Gayle (Andy) Robinson, Tammy (David) Tomlinson, grandson Matt (Angelia) Speck, great-grandchildren Hailey Speck and Dylan Speck, step-grandchildren, Megan Bryan(Blaine) Whitaker, Mallory Bryan, John Ross Bryan, Drew Robinson, Holly Robinson, Adam( Lori) Tomlinson and Aaron Tomlinson, nieces Linda Blair, Sarah Eatherly and Lotus Graves.

Mr. Speck was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Lois Johnston Speck, his brothers Knox, Joe, sister Lotus and parents Robert S. & Mattie Lee White Speck.

Grandsons will serve as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include: David M. Tomlinson, Kenny Reich, Jerry Brown, Mike Hearn, Jay Moore, Shane Hoffman and John F. White.

Special thanks to caregivers Sarah McClenon and Denis Chumney and Gentiva Hospice.

Services are slated for Friday, August 14 at 1:00 p.m. at Ligon & Bobo Funeral Home. Visitation will be on Thursday, August 13 from 4 to 8 p.m. and on Friday beginning at 11 a.m. until time of service.

Bro. Barry Keene will officiate. Interment immediately following service at Wilson County Memorial Gardens with full Military Honors.