Ms. Gloria Faye Ray

We are saddened to announce the passing of Ms. Gloria Faye Ray, 69, of 400 Ponderosa Drive, Apt. 119, Dunn, on Friday, September 13, 2024. 

The Ray Family will receive family and friends daily from 4:30 pm until 8:00 pm at the home of Diamond Jacobs, 267 Copper Loop, Sanford, NC 27330.

Gloria Fay Ray was born on September 13, 1955, in Harnett County, North Carolina, to Annie Mae and Calvin Ray. She was the second of five children blessed to this union. Raised in Harnett County, Gloria attended public schools and graduated from Lillington Shawtown High School in 1974. She then pursued higher education, first locally and later continuing her studies after moving to Richmond, VA, in 1980. During her time in Richmond, Gloria worked in various clerical roles while furthering her education.

Guided by the Holy Spirit, Gloria was baptized by Reverend Leake and became a cherished member of McLean Chapel under his leadership. In 1986, Gloria returned to her roots in Lillington to raise her children. Gloria had a deep love for her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She treasured every moment spent with them and took great pride in being a grandmother. She loved shopping, spending time talking on the phone with her friends, and cherishing moments with her family.

In her later years, Gloria was blessed to have the support of her dedicated home health aide, Lisa Godwin , who was not only a caregiver but also a comforting presence and a friend. Lisa's kindness, compassion, and attentive care brought much comfort to Gloria and her family, and her unwavering support is deeply appreciated.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories with her children: Tanisha Ray, Diamond Jacobs (Shayla), and Lenterrell Ray; and her eight grandchildren: Xavier, Angel, Aiden, Kyla, Journi, Jordyn, Kayleen, and Nosaj. She is also survived by her brothers, Charles Henry Elliott and Andre Ray; three uncles, Willie Roger, Vernon (Teresa) Elliott, and David (Elaine) Elliott; aunts - Brenda Hart, and Ann McNeill, along with other relatives and friends.

Public viewing will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Dafford Funeral Home in Angier, NC., with family members present from 5PM - 6PM., following the guidelines of the funeral home for entrance and capacity.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 1:00 pm at McLean Chapel FWB Church in Bunnlevel, NC., following the church guidelines for entrance and capacity.

Interment will follow in the Norrington AME Zion Church Cemetery, Highway 27W, Lillington.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ms. Gloria Faye Ray, please visit our floral store.