Charles “Ray” Raymond Speed

Charles “Ray” Raymond Speed, 71, passed away on Aug. 13, 2026, in Kalispell, Montana. 

He was born on Jan. 28, 1955, in Libby, Montana, to Charles Richard Speed and Patricia Ruth Anderson. Ray was raised in the Libby and Yaak areas, where he developed a deep connection to the people, land and way of life of northwest Montana.

Ray was a hardworking man who spent much of his life working with his hands and taking on demanding jobs. Throughout his career, he worked as a logger, truck driver and heavy equipment operator, and later worked as a head blaster in mining. He also attended blasting school, building on the knowledge and skills he had gained through years of hard work and experience.

Ray shared 28 years of marriage with his wife, Shirley Totten Speed. Together, they built a life filled with family, memories and the many simple pleasures Ray enjoyed. He will be deeply missed by Shirley and his children, Tara Totten, Lynda Kohut, Charlie Badgett and Jason Speed.

Ray was also a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He leaves behind nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will carry his memory with them.

Ray is also survived by his sisters, Sue West, Sandra Murch, Tina Bets His Medicine, Nancy Speed, Mae Bradstreet and Jeanna Rae Speed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Richard Speed and Patricia Ruth Anderson, and his sisters Bonnie Ann Overby, Robbin Butkus and Mae Ruth Holmes.

Outside of work, Ray enjoyed spending time outdoors. Camping, hunting, fishing and shooting were among his favorite pastimes, giving him plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Montana outdoors he knew so well. 

Those who knew Ray will remember him not only for the work he did and the life he built, but for the memories he made with the people around him.

At 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, Ray will be laid to rest in the community he called home. A graveside service will be held at Boyd Cemetery in Yaak, Montana, with cremation burial to follow.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.