Edna Keener Ray

Franklin, NC - Edna Keener Ray, age 83, of the Clarks Chapel Community died, Friday, July 3, 2009 in an Asheville, NC hospital. She was a native of Gaston County, NC and the daughter of the late Elbert and Estella Hoyle Keener. She was married to the late R. C. Ray. She was a retired nurses aide. She worked at Angel Medical Center for twenty years and later for Dr. Doralea Harmon for fifteen years. She enjoyed helping others and was an avid NASCAR fan. She was a lifetime member of the Franklin VFW Ladies Auxiliary for more than fifty years. She was a member of Clarks Chapel United Methodist Church.

She is survived by one daughter, Meritha J. Purifoy and her husband David of New Bern, NC. Seven grandchildren,thirteen great-grandchildren, six great-great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by one grandson, Joe Dowdle.

Funeral services will be Tuesday July 7, 2009 at 2:00 PM in the Clarks Chapel United Methodist Church with the Rev. Tim Hayes officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Nephews will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6:00- 8:00 PM , Monday July 6, 2009 at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the service.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.