Donald Edwin Ray Sr., 78, of Smithville died Monday morning, July 10 at NHC HealthCare Center in Smithville.
He was born Feb. 21, 1939 to his parents, the late Thurman and Lula Lakey Ray. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Marzell Barnes Ray; four brothers, Burnice Ray, George Ray, J.T. Ray, Clayton Ray; three sisters, Imogene Rogers, Lois and Ruth Ray.
Donald was retired from Century Electric/Magnetek and was a member of New Union the Baptist Church. Survivors include two sons, Eddie (Tapatha) Ray and Cary Ray both of Smithville; three grandchildren, Dusten (Brandi) O’Connor, Julie (Chris) Ponder, Ethan (Samara) Ray all of Smithville; nine great-grandchildren, Madison, Logan, Ellie, Austin, K’sin, Kylah, Elizabeth, Gracelynn and Hannah; one sister, Nell Rankhorn of McMinnville and several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, July 13, at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Keith Sims officiating and burial will follow at DeKalb Memorial Gardens. Visitation with the family will be on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Thursday 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 2 p.m.
DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Donald Edwin Ray Sr., 78

