JONESVILLE — Mr. Henry "Ford" Ray, 94, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2020, at Hugh Chatham Nursing and Rehab. Mr. Ray was born November 1, 1925, in Wilkes County to Rev. James Blain and Lou Ella Garris Ray. He retired from Chatham Manufacturing as an IBM Clerk in the Weave Room after 47 years of service. Mr. Ray was an avid fisherman and hunter. In addition to his parents, Mr. Ray was preceded in death by his loving wife, Nellie Wiles Ray; brothers, John, Samuel, Parks, and Garvey Ray; sisters, Marion Swaim, Esther Church and Hazel Cleary; and a stepson, Wayne Wiles. He is survived by four children, Karen (Dan) Pardue, Ronnie (Kathy) Ray, Steve (Ailene) Ray, and Judy Wiles; grandchildren, Angela (Noah) Adams, Kristie (Chris) Shugart, Michelle Woods, Missy Underwood, Mandy (Rob) Maddry, and Michael Wiles; great-grandchildren, Matthew and Trevor Woods, Brady Shugart, Blain Adams, Zachary and Joshua Underwood, Maggie (Daniel) Lamm, Sarah Maddry, and Daniel and Dustin Maddry; great-great grandson, Blake Lamm; sister, Betty Church; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Due to governmental restrictions, a private graveside service was conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2020, at Swan Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Scott Bishop and Rev. Randy Johnson officiating. The family requests no visitors at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mtn. Valley Hospice 243 Lee Ave. Yadkinville, NC 27055. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff of Mtn. Valley Hospice and Hugh Chatham Nursing Center for the loving care given to Mr. Ray. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Jonesville is serving the Ray family.
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April 3, 2020
Karen, I just saw the notice about your father. My father (who's 96 now) and I are sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family.
Phyllis Blackburn McKee
Barney Blackburn
Diane Richardson Watt
April 2, 2020
Karen I just saw this mentioned about your dad on Facebook. I am so sorry and I feel your pain. You were the apple of your daddys eye. Im so sorry I couldnt be there. Im not getting around too good myself. Im going to different doctors to try and get straightened out but nothing great has happened yet. I have major problems breathing. Anyway, I wanted you to know I love you and Im sending prayers that your heart wont hurt so bad soon. It never goes away but it does lighten up. Take care Karen and stay well please during this Coronavirus.
Allen & Martha Swaim
March 28, 2020
Were so sorry for your loss. It was a blessing to know Mr. Ford. He was such a kind man. His smile and gentle spirit were so real. Thankful to have known him. May the Lord give you comfort during the days ahead.
TOMMY & TERESA Ray
March 27, 2020
KAREN, RONNIE, AND STEVE AND ALL YOUR FAMILIES PLEASE KNOW YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. WE SO MUCH ENJOYED THE TIMES BACK WHEN FORD WAS ABLE TO DRIVE BECAUSE WHEN IT GOT WARM WEATHER TOMMY WOULD GET A CALL FROM FORD ASKING HIM TO CHECK THE AC ON HIS VEHICLE.
WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THESE VISITS AND THE GOOD TIMES AT THE RAY REUNION. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU IN HIS CARE. LOVE TOMMY, TERESA AND KEVIN
Jan Baldwin Boyd
March 26, 2020
Steve (Flipper), Ronnie and family, I remember your Dad at Chathams, he was always so nice and friendly to everyone. I always enjoyed talking with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your families during this sad part of your life. I love you all and youve always been a special part of my life. Gods Peace
Sandra and Roy Lowe
March 26, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Uncle Ford was like a second father to me while I was growing up. So many wonderful memories. Really enjoyed fishing with him, Dad, Uncle Sam, Uncle Parks, and all of us cousins. Love him and all of his family.
Art Beeler
March 26, 2020
So so sorry for the loss of your father, Karen. May your grief be consoled through your good memories. Please know we are here if you need us.
Brenda Robbins
March 25, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Love & Prayers, Mr. & Mrs. Gary Robbins & Family.
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