Rev. C. Raymond Probst

Rochester: Passed away on March 25, 2025 at age 97. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Elaine Probst; brother, Robert Probst.

He is survived by his children, Bruce (Shirley) Probst, Brit (Linda Hanselman) Probst; Fran (Anne) McKenna, Holly (Darryl) Powell, brother, Richard Probst; 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends, including his St. John’s Meadows friends.

Born in Torrington, Connecticut in his family home on March 7th, 1928, Ray, in his words, grew up with “cows and chickens”, as his father was a dairy inspector and the family had an egg business. Every year for his birthday from ages 7 to 16, Ray received baby chicks, and he loved caring for them. Later in his life he raised Bantam chickens as pets and show birds, housing them in coops which he built, and often taking them to county and state fairs to be judged. Some of his neighbors relied on his rooster as their daily wake up alarm! Ray intended to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in agriculture, but his high school did not have the prerequisites needed to enter the University of Connecticut School of Agriculture. At this time he was becoming very active in his church, and even preached at a youth-led worship service. At the end of his senior year, Ray was drafted and served in the Army National Guard for two years as a company clerk. Following his time in the service he attended college and later Bangor Seminary, receiving his Master of Divinity degree while also serving churches in Connecticut, Michigan and Maine. Ray met his beloved wife, Elaine, while they both attended Defiance College, and they later married and moved to Kirtland, Ohio with their sons, Bruce and Brit, where Ray pastored the United Church of Christ Church there. After serving for five years in Kirtland, the family moved to Rochester, New York and Ray became the first Director of Spiritual Care at St. John’s Home. Over his 24 years at the Home, he was known as “Chappy” (endearing nickname for chaplain) and selflessly served the residents, staff and families, often being called out in the middle of the night to offer pastoral care. As a resident of St. John’s Meadows in his retirement, Ray also worked as Spiritual Care Director there and as a valued volunteer.

Ray enjoyed nurturing flowers and gardening throughout his life and could masterfully revive any dying plant with his “green thumb.”

His family meant everything to him, and Ray’s legacy of love, ministry and service is characterized by his wise counsel, kindness, generosity and remarkable ability to stay in touch with friends from every chapter of his life. He created a web of love and friendship by connecting his friends with each other through numerous gatherings and celebrations, establishing new friendships and meaningful relationships. He will be greatly missed by his family, large circle of friends, and the St. John’s Community.

A celebration of life service will take place at the St. John’s Home Chapel (150 Highland Avenue) on Saturday, June 21st at 11am, followed by a reception in the Parks Room, Chestnut Court at St. John’s Meadows, (Johnsarbor Dr W, Rochester, NY 14620) 2-4pm.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the St. John’s Foundation, 150 Highland Avenue, Rochester, New York, 14620. [Donate Online]