Ray Mathis

Celebration of Life Memorial Services: Saturday, July 5, 2025, 1:00 PM, Gus Thornhill's Funeral Home, INC. Chapel (1315 Gus Thornhill Jr. Dr., East Point, GA 30344)
In Loving Memory of Brother Ray Mathis
"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23
May these words flow gently, wrapped in love and filled with the tenderness of memory, so that all who hear will know: Brother Ray Mathis was deeply loved, and he will be dearly missed.
Brother Ray was born into faith and raised in love, growing up in the warmth of White Hill Baptist Church with his siblings, his devoted father, Deacon Sanford Mathis, and his loving mother, Deaconess Annie Mae Mathis. Their home was one where service to God and others was a way of life - values Ray carried with him throughout his days.
He attended school in Macon and Taylor Counties and graduated from R.L. McDougald High School in Butler in 1967. After high school, he moved to Atlanta, where he pursued further education and became a draftsman for the City of Atlanta - a career that reflected his precision, discipline, and quiet strength.
But Brother Ray's gifts extended beyond the professional. He was a soulful and gifted singer - his voice, paired with that of his twin brother Roy, brought people to their feet and tears to their eyes. Their gospel quartet's signature song, "O Mary Don't You Weep," became a ministry in itself. Their harmonies told stories of hope, healing, and heaven.
Ray also found joy and camaraderie in the Volkswagen Beetle Club - a group of about fifty men who proudly drove VW Beetles and would parade through downtown Atlanta on Sunday afternoons in perfect formation. It was more than a spectacle; it was a brotherhood rooted in unity and service, raising funds and giving back to those in need.
In his later years, after retiring, Brother Ray returned home - both to the family house in Reynolds and to his spiritual roots at White Hill. Quiet and humble, he would slip into the last pew of the sanctuary, often not staying for the entire service but always coming for the Word. He loved to hear Pastor Johnson preach. Sometimes, he'd arrive early just to wait in the parking lot, hoping to catch his brother, Deacon Ronnie, so he could place his tithe and offering in his hands. That was Ray - faithful, steady, and sincere.
Brother Ray's love for his family ran deep and true. His way of checking in was simple but meaningful. He'd stop by Ronnie's office in Fort Valley, gently peek in, and ask, "You doing alright?" That one question held a world of care. And just like that, he'd be back on the road - unless, of course, he could be convinced to stay for lunch at Fried Green Tomatoes, where laughter and love filled the space between bites.
His devotion to family showed especially in his care for his sister Daisy. He visited her at Summerhill Nursing Home in Perry several times a week, sometimes even twice in one day. He needed to see for himself that she was alright - and once reassured, he'd promise to come back. Daisy would smile and say, "That's just how Ray is."
He found joy in the simple rhythms of life: cutting grass on his riding lawn mower, driving his Toyota Tacoma, and seeking out small diners in nearby counties. One of his favorite places was Captain D's in Warner Robins, where he always ordered grilled fish, rice, fried okra, and sweet tea. The staff knew him by name and adored him for his kindness and the generous tips he left behind - tokens of a heart that always gave more than it received.
But above all else, Brother Ray cherished his daughter Alexis and his granddaughter Carnegie. They were the light of his life, and his love for them knew no limits. Alexis, in return, gave her father the greatest gift - her unwavering love, her care, and her devotion. She made sure he was surrounded with dignity, comfort, and compassion in every chapter of his journey.
Brother Ray was a man of grace - soft-spoken, humble, and full of heart. He didn't need to raise his voice to be heard; his presence spoke volumes. His kindness was quiet, his generosity constant, and his spirit so very gentle. He gave without asking, loved without limits, and served without needing recognition.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith. Holding precious memories are his beloved daughter Alexis, his sweet granddaughter Carnegie, his twin brother Roy, his dear sister Daisy, and his devoted brother Ronnie. He also leaves behind two sisters-in-law, a host of nieces and nephews, extended family, and many friends - all of whom were blessed to have known him.
Though our hearts are heavy, they are also full - full of gratitude for the life, the love, and the light of Brother Ray. We thank God for the gift of time we shared, for the laughter, the lessons, and the legacy he leaves behind. We take comfort in knowing that he is now resting - in perfect peace, wrapped in the arms of his Savior.
May we live as Ray lived: quietly strong, deeply faithful, and full of love.
Until we meet again, Brother Ray
You are loved. You are missed. You are remembered.
Repast Following The Celebration of Services At The Annell Thornhill's Multicomplex Center
Family and Friends are asked to assemble in the chapel at 12:30 pm.