MOREHEAD, RAY EDWARD,  58, a beloved hairstylist and friend, passed away on September 3, 2023, leaving a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on May 19, 1965, in Belleville, Kansas, Ray was the youngest child of Dale Emerson and Virginia Lee {Haskell} Morehead. 

 Growing up in the heartland of North Central Kansas and South Central Nebraska, Ray's journey through life was marked by a genuine love for people and a passion for his craft. He began his educational journey in the small town of Byron, Nebraska, attending elementary school there before moving on to Chester Hebron for high school. He proudly graduated from Belleville, where his father and mother, Dale and Virginia, ran the local gas station. 

 After high school, Ray pursued his dreams with determination and earned his associate degree from Cloud County Community College. His desire to make people feel beautiful led him to the Kansas School of Cosmetology, where he honed his skills as a hairstylist. Over the years, Ray brought his expertise to several salons, including a notable stint at a salon in Andover and Cheveux Salon on Woodlawn in Wichita. Later, he decided to embark on his entrepreneurial journey, opening his own salon in his Wichita home. 

 Ray's zest for life extended beyond his profession. He was an avid theatre enthusiast, often joining friends to attend shows at Crown Uptown and Mosley St. Melodrama. While Ray did not regularly attend church, he held deep spiritual beliefs that were evident in his collection of Christian art, with a special fondness for crosses and artworks of Mary. 

 For Ray, friends held a special place in his heart. He enjoyed the camaraderie of traveling with close companions, with trips to Florida being among his fondest memories. However, his greatest joy came from being a hairstylist. He dedicated most of his time and energy to his craft, even working tirelessly on weekends to make countless brides look and feel their best on their special day. Ray had a natural gift for connecting with people. He was an exceptional listener, often called tHAIRpist or Hair God. He always made time for his customers, making them feel cherished and valued. 

 Ray Edward Morehead is survived by his brother, Dale Lee Morehead, and leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Virginia, his sister Debbie L. Mick, and his beloved sister Kathy Wagley. 

 Arrangements for Ray's farewell will be held at 11:00 a.m. on October 14, 2023 at First Metropolitan Community Church, 156 S. Kansas in Wichita. In honoring his memory, let us remember the warmth, kindness, and dedication he brought to the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. Ray's legacy lives on in the beauty he created and the hearts he touched throughout his remarkable life. 

 If you would like to show your support by sending a meal to Ray's family, click this box