URGENT UPDATE: E. Ray Lichty, a prominent retired CSX executive, has died at the age of 88 due to kidney failure, confirmed on November 10, 2023, at Stella Maris Hospice in Baltimore. His passing marks the end of a remarkable 40-year career in the railroad industry.
Born as Elvin Ray Lichty in Akron, Ohio, Mr. Lichty was a dedicated transportation expert who began his journey on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. He met his wife, Judith “Judy” Franklin, in first grade, and they shared a life together for over 68 years. Judy reflected on their time together, stating, “We really had a lifetime together.”
Mr. Lichty’s career was sparked during a summer job as a bridge tender while studying electrical engineering at Ohio State University in 1955. His passion for railroads led him to switch his major to transportation at Kent State University, where he continued to work part-time for the B&O.
After graduating, he moved to Baltimore, where he quickly climbed the ranks, becoming assistant train master in Wilmington, Delaware, and later terminal train master in Cincinnati. His extensive knowledge of the railroad industry earned him respect and admiration from peers.
“Ray was a great manager, a true gentleman, a man of skill and a man to be admired,” said Rush Loving, a noted author on rail transportation.
In 1986, Mr. Lichty played a significant role in the merger of the Chessie System with the Seaboard System Railroad to form CSX, spending considerable time in Washington, D.C. “That was a neat year for Ray,” Judy added. “He loved being involved and was so happy doing that work.”
Mr. Lichty’s contributions extended beyond management; he also earned a master’s degree from American University and later taught business at the University of Baltimore and Loyola University. He retired as the CSX vice president of energy systems development.
Colleagues remembered him as a passionate advocate for railroad history and an informal instructor about the formation of CSX’s component rail lines. “He was indeed a larger-than-life presence who affected many of us railroaders, railfans, and railroad historians,” said Herbert Harwood, a longtime associate.
Mr. Lichty was also engaged in the rail history community, serving as the long-time editor of the Retired Administrators of the Baltimore & Ohio and organizing events for railroad workers. He was active with the John W. Barriger III National Railroad Library and advised the B&O Railroad Historical Society.
Services for E. Ray Lichty will be private. He is survived by his wife, Judy; son, David Lichty, of Glen Arm; daughter, Holly Lichty Ashby, of Jacksonville; two grandchildren; and three great-grandsons.
The impact of his work and passion for railroads will be felt for years to come. For those wishing to pay tribute to Mr. Lichty, the railroad community continues to remember and honor his legacy.
For more updates, stay tuned to our coverage.
