BREAKING NEWS: E. Ray Lichty, a respected former executive at CSX and a prominent figure in the railroad industry, has died at the age of 88. Lichty passed away from kidney failure on November 10, 2023, at Stella Maris Hospice in Cockeysville, Maryland, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and dedication to railroading.
Born as Elvin Ray Lichty in Akron, Ohio, Lichty dedicated over 40 years to the rail industry, starting his career with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O). His passion for railroads ignited in 1955 during a summer job as a bridge tender while studying electrical engineering at Ohio State University. He later transitioned to a transportation major at Kent State University, where his commitment to the field deepened.
Lichty’s remarkable journey saw him rise through the ranks, becoming a terminal train master in Cincinnati and later returning to Baltimore as a freight specialist. His wife, Judith “Judy” Franklin Lichty, remarked, “We really had a lifetime together,” reflecting on their bond since first grade.
As a key player in the merger that formed CSX, Lichty spent significant time in 1986 testifying before Congress regarding the union of the Chessie System and Seaboard System Railroad. “That was a neat year for Ray,” Judy shared, emphasizing his joy in being actively involved in the industry.
Lichty retired as CSX’s vice president of energy systems development, leaving a lasting impact on colleagues and the railroad community. “Ray was a great manager, a true gentleman,” noted Rush Loving, a rail transportation expert. His passion for railroad history led him to edit the Retired Administrators of the Baltimore & Ohio and its affiliates News & Notes.
He maintained a keen interest in educating others about rail history, advising the B&O Railroad Historical Society and actively participating in the John W. Barriger III National Railroad Library.
Services will be private, and he is survived by his wife of 68 years, Judith; a son, David Lichty of Glen Arm; a daughter, Holly Lichty Ashby of Jacksonville; along with two grandchildren and three great-grandsons.
As the railroad community mourns the loss of E. Ray Lichty, his contributions and passion for railroading will not be forgotten.
For news tips, contact Jacques Kelly at [email protected].
