Coit "Sonny" Robinson Ray, Jr.

Coit "Sonny" Robinson Ray, Jr., a loving father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, at The Greens at Gastonia. He was born on September 7, 1934, in Gaston County, where he his early years cultivating a spirit of hard work and dedication that would carry him through his life.

Sonny was known for his remarkable skills as a tool and dye machinist, a profession he dedicated most of his life to, showcasing his belief in the value of craftsmanship and precision. His talents extended beyond his career; he was a true jack of all trades, with the ability to fix anything that needed repair. Friends and family alike knew they could count on him for assistance, and he often did so with a smile and a kind word.

Sonny had many interests that brought him joy. He cherished the times spent gardening, where he nurtured not only flowers but also a love for life and beauty. Birdwatching offered him peace, as did the hours spent at the beach, surf fishing off Surf City pier and Topsail pier, relishing the tranquility of the waters. Sonny also enjoyed the thrill of discovery, often taking pleasure in going to estate sales where he could find treasures and share stories from the past.

Sonny was a member of Restoring Hope Foursquare Church in Dallas. His service in the U.S. Marines and fighting in the Korean war, marked a significant chapter, reflecting his commitment to his country and the values he held dear.

Sonny leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish the memories they have of him. His son, Tony Ray (Karen), and daughter, Lynn Archer, continue his legacy alongside his grandchildren: Erin Ray, Whitney Edge (Joe), Brittany Foster (Josh), Nick Ray (Lindsay), Josh Ray, Lexie Ray, Chip Ray (Kristy), and great-grandchildren: Hayes Edge, Kinsley Edge, Huxley Edge, Jordyn Green, Presley Foster, Everleigh Foster, Junior Ray, Scotti Ray, Gavin Ray, Lakelyn Ray and Elliana Ray. Each of them carries a piece of his spirit and the lessons he taught them about love, hard work, and dedication to family.

Sonny is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Tammy Ray, and brother, Robert Ray, as well as many wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He shared a special bond with his dear friend, Evelyn Saunders, whose companionship enriched his life.

Sonny was preceded in death by his loving parents, Coit Robinson Ray and Willie Paysour Ray, his beloved wife, Kathryn "Kat" Ransom Ray, son, Coit R. "Chuck" Ray, III, grandson, Nathan Ray, and sisters: Barbara Burkett, Sharon Tschillier, and Glenda Ray.

The family wishes to invite all who knew and loved Sonny to a visitation on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service from 2:00 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation in Gastonia with Pastor Cameron Bryson officiating. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Gaston Memorial Park Mausoleum D, 1200 South New Hope Road, Gastonia with military honors by the Gaston County Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Restoring Hope Foursquare Church, 1026 Dallas Stanley Hwy, Dallas, NC 28034.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com