Mrs. Carol Ann Thornton Ray, 91, of Canon, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at her home.

Born on December 30, 1933, in Elbert County, in the Nuberg Community, she was the daughter of the late Alston Thornton and Katylu Rampey Thornton. Mrs. Ray was a retired seamstress from Bellcraft Mfg., and a member of the Bethany Baptist Church, where she was a former pianist and member of the WMU.

Survivors include her husband of 75 years: William R. Ray; three sons: Robert Ray (Lynn) of Canon, David Ray (Sherry) of Canon, and Steven Ray (Janelle) of Columbus, GA; son-in-law: Vernon Harbin of Hartwell; one brother: Gene Thornton of Alpharetta, GA; five grandchildren: Angela Harbin Carpenter (Eric), Elena Crase (Nathan), Cassie Ray, Gracie Ann Ray, Garrett Ray; and six great-grandchildren also survive.

Mrs. Ray was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter: Brenda Ray Harbin.

The family will receive friends Friday, August 15, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.  Other times the family will be at their respective homes.

Funeral services for Mrs. Carol Ann Ray will be Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Bethany Baptist Church with Rev. Luther Thomason officiating.  Burial will be in the Bethany Baptist Church Cemetery.

Flowers are optional, and memorials may be made to Bethany Baptist Church, 2085 Bethany-Bowersville Rd, Canon, GA 30520

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