Raymond Neil Conley, DC, DACBR of Overland Park, KS left this world on May 16, 2022 at the age of 75.
Ray is survived by his wife Marcy, daughter Katie (Ben) Wagster, and granddaughter Annabeth; brother Robert L. Conley (Grace), and sister Rolana (Joseph) Mierzwa. He was preceded in death by his parents, Neil and Zelma Conley.
Ray started his college years as a Phi Kappa Psi at the University of Kansas in 1964. He followed in his father’s footsteps to study chiropractic at Cleveland University - Kansas City. He continued his education completing his residency in radiology at National University of Health Sciences in Lombard, IL. He went on to teach at Cleveland University for many years where he served as Co-chairman of the radiology department and head of the residency program. He was mentored by several preceding radiologists and found fulfillment in mentoring future radiologists. He always said this was one of his proudest achievements. As one of his residents said to Ray, “You insisted on our best and helped push us to be successful”.
In his studies he became fascinated by the newly evolving idea of magnetic resonance imaging. Further study led him to eventually establish his own business, Regional Imaging Center. He continued to build his MRI practice until he retired. He wrote and published numerous articles on MRI and lectured on the topic throughout the country.
Ray served on the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts for 12 years, acting as the President of the board for one year (2004-2005).
Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Ray spent summers and weekends outdoors at the family farm in Tonganoxie, KS. Later, he found a greater joy in the games of tennis and golf. His extreme competitiveness and need for perfection led to his accomplishments, including bragging rights for his two holes-in-one. If he wasn’t playing sports, you would find him watching games in his beloved man cave. He especially loved KU basketball and the Chiefs.
As successful as Ray was professionally, he was also a pro at being a husband, father, and grandfather. He found time with family to be the most fulfilling. He knew from the moment he met Marcy that he would marry her, but it took her a few more years to come around. Once again, he had a good idea as they had a beautiful marriage for 52 years.
Ray built strong relationships with everyone he met. He could be ornery at times, but he balanced it with his colorful sense of humor. Family, friends, and co-workers soon learned how to adjust to these opposing forces.
As a true Irishman one of his favorite memories was his trip with friends to Ireland. As the Irish quote says, “Grieve not...nor speak of me with tears…but laugh and talk of me…as though I were beside you.”
Please join us for a Celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 22, from 4—6 pm at Barley’s, 11924 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS.
Visitation 9:30-10:30 am Monday, May 23, with the Funeral Mass following at 10:30am at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W 103rd St., Overland Park, KS. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, St. Luke's Foundation or the American Cancer Society in memory of Raymond Conley.