Calvin Ray Heath

Calvin Ray Heath, 70, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Duke University Hospital in Durham, surrounded by the love of his family. Ray was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on April 14, 1955, to the late Wilbur "Buddy" Heath and Betty Gordon Heath. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie Heath.

Ray was a devoted husband, daddy, granddaddy, and great-granddaddy and he was deeply loved by his family. He has spent many years employed as the manager of Brown's Hardware Store in Kenansville, where he was known for his hard work, reliability, and willingness to help others.

In his spare time, Ray enjoyed drawing and playing the guitar. He loved piddling around the house, working with his hands, and making things-always finding joy in creating or fixing something. Above all else, Ray cherished time spent with his family. Moments with his grandchildren were especially dear to him. Whether building blocks or joining in whatever adventure they imagined, Ray was always ready to have fun and make memories.

A service to celebrate Ray's life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in the chapel of Seymour Funeral Home, with Pastor Stanley Kelly officiating.

Ray is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Carol Heath; his children, Johnny Ray Heath, Stacy Marie Thompson and husband Timmy, and David Michael Heath and wife Ashley; his grandchildren, Courtney Grice and husband Jesse, Chelsey Grice and husband Hunter, Autumn Heath, Taylor Heath, Noah Heath, and Bethanie Kirby; and his great-grandchildren, Hunter Grice, Jr., Bailey Grice, Timothy Grice, and Jesse Grice, Jr. He is also survived by his sisters, Pam Rishel and husband Barry, and Kim Christman and husband David; and his brother, Kenny Heath.