Ray Gene Anthony

Ray Gene “Crane Man” Anthony June 20, 1938 – May 13, 2025

Ray Gene Anthony, affectionately known as “The Crane Man,” passed away peacefully at his home in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania, on May 13, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 86 years old.

Born on June 20, 1938, in Uniontown, PA, Ray grew up in the close-knit community of Republic. He attended Redstone High School and went on to serve proudly in the United States Navy — an experience that shaped the determination and discipline he would carry throughout his life.

A natural entrepreneur with a tireless work ethic, Ray built the nationally respected Anthony Crane, which grew to become the largest crane company in the country. Over the years, he also owned and operated an auto toy store, a motorcycle shop, a boat marina and sales business, and a gun store — each venture reflecting his deep passion for connecting with people every day.

Ray lived life to the fullest. He loved watching football, riding motorcycles, hunting, flying his planes, and—perhaps most of all—talking cranes. Whether in business or in leisure, he brought humor, determination, and an unmistakable authenticity to everything he did.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Mariam (Solomon) Anthony; his sister, Natalie (Anthony) Petrie; his brother, David Solomon; his first wife, Joan (Ferchak) Anthony; and his beloved son, Samuel Ray Anthony.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Delores “Jo” Anthony; daughters Natalie Anthony (Brent) and Lori Catalucci (Tonino); stepdaughter Charla Garmany (Allen); stepson Spencer Todd Christopher (Dreama); and his sister, Sandi Anthony and family.

Ray was a proud grandfather to Ryan Anthony, Adrienne McGee (Rob), Lindsay Bain (JB), Alex Christopher, Spencer Shane Christopher, Hannah Garmany, and Seth Garmany, and deeply cherished his great-grandchildren, Gavin and Laila Bain. He will also be lovingly remembered by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Ray’s legacy is one of generosity, perseverance, passion, and pride in his work. He will be remembered for his vibrant stories, enduring strength, and the spark that made him truly one of a kind.

Visitation will be held in the DONALD R. CRAWFORD FUNERAL HOME, HOPWOOD on Monday May 19 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm. Additional visitation will be held on Tuesday May 20 from 11am until the hour of the funeral service at 12pm. Interment will be held privately in LaFayette Memorial Park. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ray’s memory may be made to Fayette Friends of Animals.

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