Matthew Benjamin Ray

Matthew Ray, 45, of Cordele, GA, passed away August 1, 2025, surrounded by his family and friends. Born on August 21, 1979, in Americus, GA, Matthew was the beloved son of Helen and Lonnie Ray, of Cordele. His life was marked by deep faith, unwavering devotion to his family, and a passion for serving others. A proud graduate of Tift County High School, Matthew was a key member of the Tift County Blue Devil State Champion Golf Team, an achievement that led to his induction into the Tift County Sports Hall of Fame in the Class of 2015. He went on to attend the University of Georgia, where he earned his degree and was a proud member of the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Matthew's faith in Christ was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted member of Ebenezer Baptist Church where he served faithfully as a Deacon, Chairman of the Pastor Search Committee, Chairman of the House and Grounds Committee, and Assistant Teacher for the Young Adult Sunday School Class. His leadership and commitment to the church were a reflection of his love for God and his community. Matthew was also known for his hard work and excellence in his career, earning the "Lead Cow" award during his time with Triangle Chemical Company. Outside of work, he found great joy in coaching his son's Diamond Jaxx Travel Baseball Team and sharing his love of the outdoors with his children, especially his love of hunting and fishing with his son, Gresham. Matthew adored his loving wife, Karli, and deeply loved their two beautiful children, Gresham and Ila Kate. His family was his entire world. He treasured every moment spent with them. His love extended beyond his own household. He was a devoted son, a caring brother, a loving friend, and a cherished uncle who took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of his extended family. Matthew is survived by his wife, Karli; his children, Gresham and Ila Kate; his parents, Helen and Lonnie Ray; his sister, Deidra Langstaff (Bob), of Albany, GA; mother-in-law, Jean Thompson, of Unadilla, GA; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ansley and Cal Scarborough, of Byromville, GA; and nieces and nephews, Burch Langstaff (Abigail), Liza Langstaff, Smith Langstaff, Mason Scarborough and Tate Scarborough. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Marvin Smith, of Cordele, and paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Ray, of Cordele; as well as his grandmothers-in-law, Jeanette Thompson, of Unadilla, and Lillian Gresham, of Byromville. Matthew's legacy of love, faith, kindness, and strength will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. The family will receive guests on Monday, August 4, 2025, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm, at Rainey Family Funeral Services located at 1415 East 24th Ave, Cordele, GA, 31015. A funeral service honoring Matthew will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 11:00 am, at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 118 Crisp Academy Drive, Cordele, GA, 31015. An online guest register is available at www.raineyfuneral.com