William R. Ray

Mr. William R. Ray, 97, of Canon, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Born on April 1, 1929, in Canon, GA, he was the son of the late Alexander “Samp” Ray and Mavle Harris Ray. Mr. Ray was a farmer and was a lifelong member of the Bethany Baptist Church where he was the eldest member of the church. He was also a founding member of the Goldmine Station of the Hart Co. Fire Department. William loved to camp & travel, especially in Florida, Yonah Mountain, and Helen, and he also camped & travelled throughout several states during his life.

Survivors include his three sons: Robert Ray (Lynn) of Canon, David Ray (Sherry), of Canon, and Steven Ray (Janelle) of Columbus, GA; a son-in-law: Vernon Harbin of Hartwell; a sister-in-law: Carrie Sue Ray of Ft Pierce, FL; a brother-in-law: 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.

Mr. Ray was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Carol Ann Thornton Ray; a daughter: Brenda Ray Harbin; a brother: Harold Ray; and two sisters: Mildred Wallace and Tabitha Melton.

The family will receive friends Friday, October 16, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home.

Funeral Services for Mr. William R. Ray will be Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the 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 the Bethany Baptist Church, P.O. Box 396, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.