Robert Charles Ray

Robert Charles Ray, age 68 of West Jefferson, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at Ashe Memorial Hospital.  Robert was born November 29, 1953 in Detroit, MI to the late Roger and Gloria Wandrie Ray.

Robert’s family moved from Detroit to Ashe County, NC, where Robert enjoyed his childhood and graduated from Beaver Creek High School.  Robert was always at home in the mountains of NC, the landscape and people of which inspired him.

Many in the community will remember Robert as a jack of all trades, as he spent his career working on the construction of homes in the area, including plumbing and stonemasonry.  Robert’s Christian faith was an essential part of his life.  In retirement he enjoyed his two greatest joys: spending time with his family and being an artist.  Robert’s storytelling and sense of humor will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him as well as his ability to listen to anyone who needed to talk.

Robert is survived by his wife, Christine Gregory Ray, two daughters, Alyssa Ray of Stuart, FL and Joni Ray of West Jefferson, one son, Roger Ray of West Jefferson, six brothers, Arthur Ray of Fleetwood, Ronald Ray of Jefferson, Ralph Ray of Asheville, John Ray of Atlanta, GA, Jim Ray of Arizona and Richard Ray of Montana, one sister, Joanne Grote of Denver, CO and two grandchildren, Kenden Ray and Jordan Ray.

In Robert’s memory the family requests that you do a good deed for someone who is in need.  In lieu of flowers you may send a donation to any arts organization in Ashe County in Robert’s memory.

Burial services will be held at the Hardin Cemetery in Beaver Creek on Tuesday afternoon, December 14th, at 12:30 pm.