Philip Douglas Ray

Philip Ray Obituary

Philip Douglas Ray

Asheville - Philip Douglas Ray, 62, quietly passed away on December 19th after a lengthy illness. He spent his last days at CarePartners Hospice in Asheville, North Carolina, surrounded by family and friends. Phil's zest for life will be missed by all. He never met a stranger, was always optimistic, possessed comedic talent and a winning smile. He was fiercely loyal and a competent worker who acknowledged talent in others. He preferred to spend his time out of doors and was an avid golfer and gardener. Phil graduated from NC State University's Turf Management Program where he also played on the rugby team. He worked many years as a self-employed commercial and residential landscaper and was also employed as head groundskeeper at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville area homes, businesses, and golf courses benefited from Phil's horticultural expertise. Phil genuinely cared for others and always wanted to help in things small, or great. While employed at Black Mountain Golf Course Phil even saved a golfer's life by performing CPR.

We are thankful that Phil now sleeps peacefully; his suffering has ended.

Phil is preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Kenneth M. Ray and Anita H. Ray Spencer. He is survived by two brothers, Kenneth M. Ray Jr. and wife, Susie S. Ray of Columbia Falls, MT and Gordon E. Ray and wife, Crystal W. Ray of Waynesville, NC, and by many loving nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Donations in memory of Phil can be made to the Mission Rathbun House. Also, friends are planning a celebration of life in honor of Phil. Contact R.F, A.H, D.F, or S.S for more information.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Asheville Citizen-Times on Dec. 24, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Philip Ray

13 Entries

Holly Caldwell

April 16, 2018

I also knew Phil from Catawba College and yes- what a funny, likeable and kindhearted person he was! My sympathies go out to his family and friends.

Lisa Scalzi Moody

April 16, 2018

I am saddened to hear of Phils passing. I knew Phil from Catawba College. He was a sweet, fun, funny guy and well liked by all.

Frank Myers

January 13, 2018

I recently learned of Phil's passing. i first met Phil in the mid 80`s when I began working for Phil and his business partner at Southern Seasons. I spent a lot of time working with Phil and gained valuable horticultural knowledge. Phil was full of life, always a smile, always making me laugh. I learned from Phil work was important yet you need to have fun while you work. Gordon worked with us one season and was really into country music. Phil would tease Gordon singing the two verses Gordon always repeated "I`ve got 2 dollars in the juke box and 5 more in a fifth of wine"! I was privileged to meet Kenny and others thru Phil. I have pursued a career as a Landscape Contractor due in part to Phils influence. I will always have fond memories...long live Ray Mountain! Thank you Phil.

george tanahey

January 4, 2018

Gordon, I know I haven't seen or talked to you in years. I am sorry to hear about Phil. I will be saying a prayer for you and your family. time will heal all wounds. at least it did when my brother died. take and god bless.

George tanahey

Lynn Black

December 30, 2017

Kenny, I was so sorry to hear about your brother. Know that I send my love and prayers to you and your family.

Lynn Parker Black

Pam

December 29, 2017

I have only known Phil for the last 4 years, but wanted to share what I learned about him in that time. He was so kind and generous, and had a wonderful sense of humor! My family moved into a house near his, and he would stop by often to say hello and always made us laugh. Phil fixed our lawn mower more than once and always refused any sort of compensation. He was always helping someone out in our neighborhood. He will be missed!

Paul Smith

December 23, 2017

Phil and I were friends for 52 years. He was a heck of a golfer and a better friend. I was sick when I got the news of your hospitalization and even sicker with your passing. You were a good friend and I'm going to miss our conversations. As far back as I can remember you called me Pablo. I never asked why but not being able to hear you say that to me makes me very sad. I will miss you deeply Phil but I know you've been suffering a long time so I'm glad you can finally rest in peace. I love you brother. See you again some day and we can spank that little white ball around so you can beat the pants off me as always.

Cheryl Dotson

December 23, 2017

Thanks Phil for all the smiles and laughter. Rest in peace my dear friend..

Susie Holbert-Ray

December 23, 2017

All my love to you!

Sandy Sprinkle

December 22, 2017

I'm so sorry about this, you were so young and full of life. May you rest in peace Phil Ray.

Diane Ray

December 22, 2017

Rest in Peace Phil, I will always love you.

Deb Baldwin

December 22, 2017

There has never been anybody sweeter or more likeable than you Phil Ray!. We will not remember anything but your sweet smile and genuine spirit. We loved you back in the day and I wish things had worked out for you and Diane. Rest in Peace and may the Mercy of the Lord reach you now. You never did meet a stranger and you were generous to a fault. I have to believe all your good helped you when you went.

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