Raymond Eugene Capots

Raymond Eugene Capots, age 88, passed away on December 27, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. 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, even speaking with a scout from the Cleveland Indians--an achievement he carried with quiet pride. Those who knew Raymond remember not only his talents, but his warm hospitality, steady character, and livelong commitment to serving others. Raymond was born on September 14, 1937, in Youngstown, Ohio, 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. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University and later completed a Master's degree in Criminology at Xavier University in Cincinnati. Raymond dedicated his professional life to public service. He began his career at the Mahoning County Courthouse, working as Juvenile Parole Officer, a role he approached with deep compassion and intergrity. 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 working in the courts, Raymond shared his love of music by teaching drumming at McKelvey's. Teaching, mentoring, and encouraging others--especially young muscians--brought him great fulfillment. His hobbies and interests were many. Some of which were woodworking, carpentry, drumming and music instruction, Ohio State atheletics and the OSU Marching Band, baseball (player, fan, and lifelong student of the game), welcoming others with unmatched hopitality, an avid Frank Sinatra fan, and a Handel's Ice Cream proponent. 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; his nephews, Nick and Becky Watkins, Rick and Susan Watkins, and Danny and Belinda Capots. He is also lovingly remembered by many members of the Craven family, too numerous to name, but all of whom held him dearly in their hearts. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on January 10th, 2026 at 10:30 am at Saint Joan of Arc Church, 10700 Liberty Road, Powell, OH, 43065 where a Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Ray is remembered by his loved ones as an honest man and patient man, who used humor to lighten the mood of every room he entered.

Raymond Eugene Capots

September 14, 1937 - December 27, 2025