Nathaniel Ray

Nathaniel Ray, 88, a lifelong resident of Asheville, NC, was born January 14, 1934 and transitioned peacefully at his home on January 10, 2023. He was the son of the late Sadie Forney Ray of Weaverville. 

Affectionately called “Ray”, he was a graduate of Stephens Lee High School. Ray was drafted into the United States Army and received an Honorable Discharge. Ray enjoyed working. He was personable and courteous to everyone. He was a former employee and retiree of  both Memorial Mission Hospital and Union Camp Paper Company. After retirement, he continued working at the Laurels of Greentree Ridge Nursing Home and The Oaks at Sweeten Creek Nursing Home. Ray finally retired from Goodwill Outlet Thrift Store. Ray was a member of Nazareth First Missionary Baptist Church and served faithfully as a Deacon and sang with the Men of Valor until declining health.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by brothers, William Ray, Olden Ray; sister, Miriam Wilkerson.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 38 years, Harriet Felder Ray; daughters, Tania (Billy) Newborn of Candler and Ramona Young of Asheville; grandchildren, Brandon Whiteside of Asheville and Madison Newborn of Greensboro; his beloved and faithful brother, Rev. Dr. Lavonia (Louise) Ray of Asheville; a host of nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service will be 1:00pm Monday, January 16, 2023 at Nazareth First Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will be 30 minutes prior to the service. The service will be livestreamed on the website.

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