Max Ray

Max Ray, age 88, of the Pleasant Gap Community, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 30th, 2024 at his home. A native of Yancey County, he was a son of the late Brant and Cora Edge Ray. He was also preceded in death by two brothers: Maurice and Bobby "B" Ray.
In his younger years, Max drove a motor grader for Brown Brothers, and loved it. He had a green thumb and loved spending time in his greenhouse in the basement to start his beautiful flowers before transplanting them outside where they flourished. He always raised a beautiful garden that he shared with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching his grandchildren play ball, going to the beach with them, and watching the NC Tar Heels and Detroit Tigers play. He was an avid canner; his spaghetti sauce and salsa were most memorable. He was known to can over 200 jars at one time. Max was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother and will be greatly missed. He loved his church family and the community he grew up in.
Surviving is loving wife of 59 years Jeri Ray, daughters: Jo McMahan and husband, Marvin and Donna Huskins and husband, Darryl; son, Alan Ray and wife, Wanda; granddaughter, Carrie Laws and husband, Brent; grandsons: Ryan McMahan, Dylan McMahan, and Cole Huskins and wife, Bailey; great-grandchildren: Oliver Laws, Everett Huskins and Harlyn Huskins; and a brother, Alfred Ray. Several nieces, nephews and many friends also survive.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 7th in Pleasant Gap Baptist Church with Pastor Vern Grindstaff will officiate. Burial will follow in the Fred Young Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the Sgt. E.L. Randolph Chapter #57 D.A.V.