Ray E. Josey, Sr.

Ray E. Josey, Sr., 80, formerly of Iron City, passed away Friday, January 30, 2026.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at West Bainbridge Baptist Church with Pastor Marty Brock officiating. Interment will follow at Gainey Cemetery with Mark West, Don Green, Johnny Hand, Steve Key, Ralph Trawick and Trevor Willis serving as active pallbearers. Danny Scott, Gene Key, Emmett Dollar and Tommy Hughes will serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. Memorial donations may be made to Walk to End Alzheimer's, 1030 Boxwood Drive, Bainbridge, GA 39819.

Ray Edward Josey was born August 22, 1945, in Bainbridge, GA, the son of Lawrence & Christine Earnest Josey. He married the love of his life, Linda Gainey, in 1965, and they made their home in southwest Georgia. Ray worked as a welder and pipe fitter for Georgia Pacific at Cedar Springs until his retirement. He was a member of Atlanta Plumber UA Local Union 72 (Atlanta Plumbers, Pipefitters & HVACR Technicians). Ray attended New Life at Lake Seminole Church.

Stubborn as a mule, Ray liked what he liked and did what he did. He was an incredibly talented musician and even taught his children and grandchildren to play piano and guitar. He loved Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis, and most any gospel music. Ray kept the kids entertained and loved being outdoors. He claimed the best fishing was on Spring Creek. In the shop, Ray was equally skilled. He could fix most anything. Neighborhood children knew if they had an issue with their bikes or go-carts, take it to Mr. Ray and the problem would be solved in no time.

Survivors include his daughter, Candy J. Hawkins (Mitch); his grandchildren, Amber & Trevor and Ashley; his great-grandchildren, Jacey & one-on-the-way; and his siblings, Virginia Brogdon, Sheila Scott (Danny), Linda Key (Gene), Gail Ezell, and Jeanna West (Mark). In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Linda Gainey Josey; his son, Ray E. Josey, Jr.; and his sister, Callie King.