Mr. Alton Ray Williford, 80, of Royston, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at St. Mary's Sacred Heart Hospital in Lavonia GA.

Born on February 17, 1940 in the Shoal Creek Community of Hart County, he was the son of the late Edward L. Williford and Lena Ruth Brown Williford, he lived in Dekalb and Rockdale counties for many years before moving back to Hart County. Mr. Williford was a graduate of Dekalb Tech and retired machinist for Delta Airlines. He was also a Master Mason and 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason.Mr. Williford was an ordained Deacon and Youth SS Teacher at several churches in Dekalb and Rockdale counties before moving back to Hart County. He was a member of the Canon Baptist Church and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

Survivors include his wife: Joan Moorhead Williford; three sons: Greg Williford (Stephanie) of Cumming, GA, Brian Williford of Brunswick, GA, and Brent Williford (Sonja) of Cumming, GA; and six grandchildren: Kiersten Ergen (Tom), Mitchell Williford, Austin Williford, Tabitha Williford, Keegan Williford, and Landon Williford. Mr. Williford is preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers: Gary Williford and Harry L. Williford.

A memorial service celebrating Ray's life will be Saturday, July 18, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell with Rev. Paul Creason officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Canon Baptist Church, P.O. Box 306, Canon GA 30520.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.