H. Ray Messer (73) of Melbourne, Florida left his earthly home on November 17, 2025 surrounded by friends and family.

 Left to celebrate his memory are his wife of 56 years Cecil Messer, daughter Shanna Fair (Mike), five grandchildren: Kourtnie Gross (Ryan), Jeffrey Fair (Emilee), Evan Fair (Jade), Aubrey Fair (Nate), Olivia Mills, a great grandson Brennan Gross, a great grandson coming in 2026 Harrison Ray Negus, brother Jack Messer (Anita), brother Hobert Messer (Kathy), sisters Marie Rose, Ima Chambers, and Pauline Wells (Willard), special friends Glenn Evers, Chuck Pfrimmer, Jerry Patterson, his ever-faithful four-legged companion Tosh, and countless friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by a daughter Tracy Messer Mills and her husband Daniel, mother Rita Messer, father Herman Perkins, grandfather Caleb Messer, grandmother Josie Messer, and uncles Roy Messer, James Messer, and Wayne Messer.

Ray, born in Corbin Kentucky, lived a life of service to others as a brave police officer of 35 years, 25 of those years serving the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. Ray was highly decorated and received countless recognitions and commendations for his service to our community. His dedication to serving others touched many lives, far beyond what we will ever know. He and his wife Cecil faithfully attended Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic church in Melbourne Florida. Ray was a family man and always put others’ needs above his own. He will be deeply missed and his impact on our lives will be one that lasts forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Vietnam Veterans of America, and any organization that supports law enforcement in our communities.

A celebration of life service will be held on December 23rd at 1:30pm at Our Lady of Lourdes in Melbourne FL with a reception to follow. Final burial remains in Corbin, KY to be announced.