Gary was born in Marion, North Carolina to his late parents, James Willard and Billie Marie Bennett Ray of Burnsville, North Carolina.

He graduated from East Yancy High School in Burnsville, North Carolina. He then attended East Carolina University. He joined the Army and spent two years on Okinawa during the Vietnam War Era. After returning home from military duty he graduated from Appalachian State University with both a BA and MA in Business. He spent his working career with the South Carolina State Government in the Department of Social Services. He was the Director in several South Carolina Counties – Greenville, Pickens, Laurens, and Newberry. He also worked as an administrator traveling to all counties of South Carolina working with their Social Service Departments.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jennie Thompson Ray and their two sons, Michael Ray (Robin) of Lexington and their children, Jacob, Audrey, Evan and Alex, Andrew Ray (Emily) of Anderson and their children, Wallace and Sadie. He is also survived by a brother, Jimmy Ray (Virginia) and a sister, Jeanne Ray Styles, both of Burnsville, North Carolina and their children.

Graveside services will be conducted by Rev. Byron Wood at 11 A.M. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery, Ware Shoals. The family will speak to friends after the service at the cemetery.

Burial Prayers will be offered by The Rev. Marie Cope at 3 P.M. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Simpsonville. The family will speak to friends at the church after the services.

In lieu of flowers memorials should be made to Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 844 Mt Bethel Church Road, Ware Shoals, SC 29692. Online condolences may be made at www.ParkerWhitePruitt.com