Joseph Carlton “Joe” Ray

DURHAM Mr. Joseph “Joe” Carlton Ray, 71, went to be with his Lord on Thursday, September 11, 2014.
Mr. Ray was a native and lifelong resident of Durham, the son of the late Joseph Carl Ray and Katie Rigsbee Ray. He retired from Burlington Industries and the Durham Public School Transportation Department. He attended Liberty Baptist Church and the Friendship Sunday School Class and was a member of the Trailblazers Senior Group. He was preceded in death by his brother, Willis Ray.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Martin Ray; two sons, Jackie Ray and wife, Janet and Jerry and wife Kim both of Durham; sisters, Bea Riggsbee and Martha Rigsbee both of Durham; granddaughter, Bethany Ray. In addition to his family he is survived by lots of friends including Bob and Idabell Ray whom he had been best friend with for about 50 years.
Joe and Carol celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2011. He accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour in April 2000. He loved NASCAR racing, rook, Southern gospel music, hunting and fishing. He loved his granddaughter whom he nicknamed “Tootie”. She was the apple of his eye. He enjoyed working in his “shop”, where he spent many hours.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Hudson Funeral Chapel, officiate by Pastor Scott Gray and Pastor Derek Ketner. Burial will be in Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.
The family will receive friends on Friday from 6 to 8 pm at Hudson Funeral Home and other times at the home. Flowers are acceptable. Online condolences can be made at www.hudsonfuneralhome.com.