James Ray

Waynesville, James Ernest Ray, age 56, passed away unexpectedly on October 3, 2010. He was a native and lifelong resident of Haywood County and was the son of the late Joseph B. and Ethel Key Ray. He was also preceded in death by one brother, Bruce Ray. James was an employee of Norfolk Southern Railways for 29 years and was dedicated to his work. He was a dedicated family man, loved trains as well as billiards, and had a passion for reading and books. James had a contagious laugh, was always smiling, and loved people. He was a big-hearted, kind soul and loved and lived life to the fullest. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Janet Ray; a son, Brandon Ray of Waynesville; one daughter, Krista Ray and her boyfriend, Jared Pyle, of Raleigh; two sisters, Ellen Siske of Waynesville and Carolyn Guth and her husband, Craig, of Germany; two brothers, David Ray of Tucson, Arizona and Steve Ray of Waynesville; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 7, 2010 in the Waynesville Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Reverend Eddie Stillwell officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. prior to the services at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Haywood County Public Library, 678 South Haywood Street, Waynesville, NC 28786.

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