Shirley Anne Ray

Shirley Anne Ray, 72, passed away at her home in Clyde, North Carolina, on September 29, 2024. Born in Boone on November 12, 1951, she was the cherished only daughter of the late J.E. Ray and Clara Tester Ray.

A graduate of Watauga High School in Boone, Shirley earned her Bachelor's degree in Industrial Arts and a Master of Arts in Industrial Arts and Technology from Appalachian State University, with additional studies at Western Carolina University, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Clemson University. She was a member of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Elk Bugle Corps in Cataloochee Valley for 13 years.

Shirley began her career as a mechanical drafting teacher at Gaffney Senior High School in South Carolina, later serving as Chairman of the Engineering Division of Mitchell Community College in Statesville. Her contributions extended to serving on the N.C. Trade and Industrial Education Advisory Committee and judging at the State VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America) Conference in Raleigh.

In her later career, Shirley retired from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where she excelled as a trade and industrial education consultant and as the western regional coordinator for career-technical education. Her commitment to supporting local education directors in the western school district was exemplary, ensuring that students in career-technical courses had the best possible experiences. Colleagues regarded her as family.

After retiring, Shirley embraced life with enthusiasm, dedicating her time to travel and community service. She volunteered with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service and created lasting memories with her friends in the Women of a Certain Attitude (WOCA), enjoying adventures on cruises and a special trip to Italy. Her compassion extended to local animal rescue shelters, where she devoted herself to the welfare of all animals, particularly cats. An avid supporter of education, wildlife and antiques, she enjoyed participating at flea markets, connecting with vendors and collectors alike.

Her cheerful, compassionate nature made her a fiercely loyal friend and she maintained ties with her aunts, uncles, cousins and friends across the country. She will be remembered for her dedication to education, her love for animals and her unwavering kindness.

Graveside and burial services will be conducted by Hampton Funeral & Cremation Service on Saturday, November 16th, at 1:00 pm in the Ray Family Cemetery located within Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens, in Boone, North Carolina, officiated by Rev. Burl Greer and Dr. Nelson Granade.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hunger and Health Coalition, Inc., P.O. Box 1837, Boone, NC, 28607 (hungerhealthcoalition.com); the Clara & Shirley Ray Scholarship Fund (payable to Appalachian State University Foundation, Inc.), Advancement Services, P.O. Box 32014, Boone, NC, 28608-2014; or to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.