Gerald R. Ray

Service: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, at Grandview Baptist Church, with interment at High Cemetery; Visitation: 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, at Charles M. Nelson Memorial Chapel, Berryville.

Gerald R. (Poppy) Ray, a resident of Berryville, was born Jan. 26, 1945, in the Polo Community in Carroll County, a son of Austin and Gladys Oleta (Smith) Ray. He departed this life Friday, Aug. 15 (2014) in Rogers, at the age of 69 years. 

Gerald proudly served his country in the United States Army National Guard. He retired from Tyson Foods after a 40-year career working in management. He enjoyed raising and racing his quarter and thoroughbred horses and being a retired farmer. Gerald enjoyed being with his grandchildren. He attended the Grandview Baptist Church and enjoyed spending time with his friends and drinking coffee at The Outpost. 

On Jan. 16, 1988, Gerald was united in marriage with Dianna Jo (Carter) Ray who survives him of the home. He is also survived by one son, Ronnie Ray, of Green Forest; two daughters, Robin Wilson, of Harrison, and Amanda and husband, Neil Rushing, of Berryville; three brothers, Bill Ray and wife, Freddie, of Green Forest, Bob Ray and wife, Jo, of Berryville, and David Ray and wife, Priscilla, of Berryville; one brother-in-law, Ronnie Carter and wife, Patti, of Bella Vista; nine grandchildren, Ashley and Justin Wilson, Taylor Wells, Gavin Ray, Lilli Belle Compton, Audrey, Taylor, Chase and Kort Rushing; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.  

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Austin and Gladys Ray; one son, Gerald Wayne Ray; one daughter, Angie Ray; and one sister, Carolyn June Ray.  

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Charles M. Nelson Memorial Chapel in Berryville. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, at the Grandview Baptist Church, with Brother Billy McCall officiating. Interment will follow the service in the High Cemetery under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Grandview Baptist Church, 1001 Highway 143, Berryville, AR 72616 or High Cemetery Fund, 1472 CR 420, Berryville, AR 72616. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family at nelsonfuneral.com.