Frances Blackerby Ray

Frances (Sis) Blackerby Ray, age 86, a lifelong resident of Chelsea, Alabama, passed away on November 29, 2025.

Her husband of 56 years, the love of her life, Ken Ray, passed away in March of 2017. After his passing, Sis remained in the home they cherished. She particularly enjoyed the outdoors and spent a lot of time in the yard with family and friends. A lifelong member of Liberty Baptist Church, she taught Sunday School for many years, served on various committees, and anywhere there was a need. Her passion was making sure every bride and mother-to-be had a perfect celebration by decorating with her vast collection of china, crystal, and silver. After high school, Frances went to work at First National Bank of Birmingham (AmSouth) as a bank teller and worked her way up to vice president. "Not bad for a country girl from Chelsea," as she would say.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Ethel Blackerby of Chelsea and brother, Charles Blackerby of Mableton, Georgia. She is survived by her brother, Pat Blackerby (Jerrie) and children: Jeff Blackerby (Renea) and Cindy Blackerby Edwards (Mike); sister-in-law, Joyce Blackerby and children: Wayne Blackerby (Pam), Steve Blackerby (Sonya), and Chris Blackerby; best friend and sister-in-law, Donna Ray Mann, the entire Ray family and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great great nieces and nephews.

Sis had two golden rules for her nieces and nephews, "Always walk the chalk line" and remember Revelation 21:8, "There will be no liars in Heaven."

Heartfelt appreciation to Cindy Edwards, Linda Stinson and Affinity Hospice. Their faithful and loving care made it possible for Sis to remain at home after Ken passed away.

Funeral services will be on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Bolton Funeral Home in Columbiana. The family will receive friends 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm, at Bolton Funeral Home, followed immediately by a service in the chapel. She will be laid to rest at Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ken and Frances Ray Scholarship Fund at Liberty Baptist Church.

Please sign online condolences at www.boltonfuneralhome.com.