Billy Joe Ray

Billy Joe Ray, passed away peacefully at his residence on May 26, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on April 19, 1947, in Hazelhurst, Georgia, to Henry and Katie Mae Walker Ray and lived in this area all of his life.

Billy was well known for his career as a truck driver for Ray's Clearing and Grading, where he worked alongside his brothers. His commitment to his work was evident as he took pride in every task, ensuring that he contributed positively to his family business and the community. He relished the opportunities to drive his dump truck while also enjoying his favorite pastime—fishing. These simple joys brought him great comfort and happiness throughout his life.

Billy is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Melvin Ray, Henry Ray Jr, Frank Ray, Ricky Ray, Edgar Ray, Vurlie Ray, Glenn Ray, step-mother, Joyce Ray, infant daughter, Katie Ray, Step-Granddaughter, Chloe Ann Thigpen and wife, Debra Ray.

He is survived by:

Sons, Daniel Ray (Malicia Lee) of Cobbtown Georgia
           Billy Ray, Jr. of Effingham, Georgia

Step-Children, Andy Petermann (Lori Beth) of Alabama
                       Christy Thigpen (David) of Claxton, Georgia

Brother, Leslie Mizell of Pembroke, Georgia

Sister-in-law, Jean Ray of Bloomingdale, Georgia

Grandchild, Brooklyn Ray

Step-Grandchildren, Ashleigh McGowan, William Austin Taylor, Jeffery Petermann, Melissa White and Molly Maddoox

Several Nieces and Nephews also survive. 

Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Brannen Family Funeral Services. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, May 31, 2025. Burial will follow in Bull Creek Church Cemetery.

Care and Services are entrusted to Brannen Family Funeral Services, Glennville, Georgia. "Our Family Serving Your Family".