Betty Ray

Betty Lois Hughes Ray, age 85, of Franklin, NC, passed away Tuesday, January 19, 2016.  She was born in Macon County, the daughter of the late Joseph and Elizabeth Shields Hughes. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great‑grandmother who loved to cook for her family.  She was of the Christian faith.

Mrs. Ray is survived by her husband of 66 years, James Willard Ray; two daughters, Pauline Brabson (Roger) and Diane Passmore (Dillard) all of Franklin; seven sons, Pete Ray (Lori), Paul Ray (Joann), James Ray (fiancee’ Diane Spaninato), Bob Ray (Kathy), Charles Ray, David Ray (Mindy) and John Ray (companion Lisa Curtis) and daughter‑in‑law Jamie Ray all of Franklin; three sisters, Judy Anderson of Warsaw, NC, Phyllis Dale and Faye Higdon both of Franklin; two brothers, Billy Hughes of Franklin and Frank Hughes of Clayton, GA; 28 grandchildren; many great‑grandchildren and several great‑great‑grandchildren.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by two brothers, James and Paul Hughes.

A funeral service will be held Monday, January 25, 2016 at 11:00 am in the chapel of Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Greg Rogers officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Zion Church of God Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Chad Ray, Kevin Passmore, David Brabson, Jason Ray, Bryton Ray, Robbie Ray and Daren Presley.  The family will receive friends Friday from 9:30-11:00 am at Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home is serving the Ray family.  Online condolences may be made at bryantgrantfuneralhome.com