Joseph “Ray” Raphael Polette, 81, of Festus died Aug. 20, 2016 at Festus Manor Care Center. Mr. Polette owned Buffs Discount Center in Festus and enjoyed hunting, fishing and horseback riding. Born April 16, 1935, in Old Mines, he was the son of the late Timon and Lula (Pump) Politte.
He is survived by his wife: Evelyn (Payton) Polette; three sons: Ronald Polette, Gary (Stacey) Polette and Tony Polette, all of Festus; two daughters: Donna Polette of House Springs and Gina Hardin of St. Clair; two brothers: Don (Jean) Politte of Buchheit, Ariz., and Robert Politte of O’Fallon; a sister: Juanita (Bob) Melton of House Springs; eight grandchildren: Heather (Gary) Dunn, Shannon (Joe) Beeson, Jackie (Todd) Cherry, Robin Polette, Kelly (Jamie) Wilson and Kim, Joe and Bailey Polette; and six great-grandchildren: Dezsyl and Furrie Fringer, Hannah and Myah Beeson, Austin Dunn and Ryan West.
He was preceded in death by three brothers: Virgil, Rich and Adrian Politte; two sisters: Wilma and Patricia Politte; and a granddaughter: Lynne Polette.
Funeral services are private. Burial will be in Shepherd Hills Cemetery in Barnhart. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 9370 Olive Blvd., St. Louis 63132. Arrangements are under the direction of Mahn Twin City Chapel in Festus.