Billy Ray

Billy Lee Ray, 87, of Aplin Ridge, Gay, WV passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024.

Billy was born on July 9, 1937, in Harmony, WV, to the late Moses “Bunt” and Deltie Shouldis Ray. Many people will remember him from either driving the school bus for Jackson County from 1959 until he retired in 2000, or from seeing his truck full of tree limbs and brush, wishing he’d pull over or drive faster. To his family he was a father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, who didn’t hesitate to give advice whether it was warranted or not.

He is proceeded in death by his parents; his wife of 63 years, Elladean Ray; his son, Franklin Ray.

He is survived by his son, Tim (Karen) Ray of Ripley; daughter-in-law, Barbie Ray of Upper Track, WV; grandsons Johnny Ray (Casey Murphy) of Ripley, Travis (Lynn) Bostic of Sissonville; granddaughter Maggie (Shawn) Cooper of Elkins; great-grandchildren Hunter Bostic, Sydney Cooper, Malia Cooper and Ashton Robin. Brothers Kenneth Ray of Pinkerton, OH, and Foster Ray of Harmony; Sisters Mabel Burdette of Charleston, Eunice Hennen of Dunbar, and Ilene Shamblin of Ravenswood. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Cedar Grove Assisted Living for their kindness and special care. Especially Storm, Jodie, Debbie and Abby.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday, November 13, 2024 @ 1:00pm, Waybright Funeral Home, Ripley. Visitation will be held from 12:00pm until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Pine Hill Cemetery in Ripley.