Clifford Ray Arthur, 70

Clifford Ray Arthur, 70, of Elko, Nev., passed away April 29, 2026, at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City due to complications from a stroke. Ray Ray, as he liked to be called, was born Feb. 22, 1956, in Wallace, Idaho, to the late Edward and Blanche Arthur. 

Ray was raised in Mullan, Idaho, and graduated from Mullan High School, Class of 1976. Ray was a natural athlete who loved sports and approached every game with enthusiasm, determination and a competitive spirit. Affectionately known as “Primitive” and “Caveman,” he had a rugged toughness, a larger-than-life personality, and a witty sense of humor that made him unforgettable to everyone who knew him. 

After graduating from high school, Ray worked as an underground miner in the Silver Valley before moving to Nevada in 1983 with his long-time girlfriend, Kelly Roberts, and their son, Matthew. In 1988, they welcomed another son, Trevor. Ray and Kelly parted ways in 1996 but remained friends, bound by their shared love and dedication to their sons. Ray retired from the mining industry in 2023. 

Ray is survived by his son, Matthew, and grandson Aiden of Butte, Mont.; son Trevor of Elko, Nev.; their mother, Kelly Smith of Sheridan, Mont.; Ray’s dog, Bugsy; sisters Linda Cortez of Walla Walla, Wash., Connie (Paul) Pitman of Mullan, Idaho, Jessie (Jerome) Ploharz of Mullan, Idaho, and Brenda Jones of Spokane, Wash.; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. 

At his request, no services will be held, and inurnment has taken place at Mountainview Cemetery in Mullan, Idaho. 

Memories of Ray and messages of condolence may be shared online with his family at www.hoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services of the Silver Valley is caring for the caring for the family locally.