Mr. Graham Allen “Booster” Ray was born July 18, 1934 in Roanoke Rapids, NC. He left this world for his eternal life on March 25, 2021.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mattie Hudson Ray and Otis Franklin Ray; and 9 sisters and brothers. He was the last of 10 children.
For the last 6 years he has resided with his daughter Rhonda Ray Yarboro and Sandy Lowrance and his grandsons Cameron and Jarrett Yarboro of Roanoke Rapids.
He is also survived by his sons, Kristopher J. Ray (Mary) of Florida, Graham O. Ray (Rachel) of Grant, AL; and daughter, Marsha Delray of TN; and step daughter, Cheryl Ryder (Michael) of Littleton, NC; grandson, Christopher Ray (Alyssa) of TN; granddaughter, Stephanie Easterwood (Jonathan) of AL. Booster was the great-grandfather of CJ, Landon and Caydence Ray, Addy Ray, Olivia and Lillie Easterwood. He is also survived by many special nieces and nephews; and his special cousin, Randy Ray of Roanoke Rapids.
At the early age of 7 years old, Booster developed his love for horses, and rode up until he was 80 years old. He made many special friends along the way riding horses. It was his favorite hobby, other than watching his grandsons’ ball games. “E-ah” was always at their games rooting them on.
At age 17, Booster joined the US Marine Corp to serve his country in the Korean War. He was a proud Marine.
Booster retired from Champion International in 1996, but retirement didn’t last long as he went to work for MJ Price Construction because “he was bored at home.”
Booster was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.
Friends may visit with the family from 6:00 – 8:00 pm Saturday at Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service; and at other times at his residence.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, March 28, 2021 at Calvary Baptist Church, with Pastor Randy Martin presiding. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Cedarwood Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers are Colby Ryder, Jody Cabiness, Kris Cabiness, Travis Duncan, Taylor Norton and Jake Taylor.
Attendees are asked to observe mask and social distancing guidelines.
The service will be recorded then posted for viewing later on the Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service Facebook page.
Arrangements are under the care of Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service.