James Edward Ray

James Edward Ray, 88, of Lynchburg Virginia died peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. Known as Jim Ed to family and Jim to most everyone else, he was born March 31, 1933 in Greensburg, Kentucky to the late William Brown Ray and Martha Whitehouse Ray. Jim loved the outdoors and nature, having served nearly 30 years across this beautiful country as a Park Ranger in the US National Park Service. He was known for his ready smile, his infectious laugh, and his kind and compassionate spirit. Jim enjoyed life, family and friends and was always ready to brighten the lives of others. He was a kind and loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. He will be missed. Jim is survived by his sister Dorothy Damiano, his half-sister Sylvia Tatum and half-brothers Joe, Jack and Glenn Ray, his four sons Mark, Keith, Jerry and David Ray, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, eight nieces, twelve nephews and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Martha Stevens Ray, as well as his brother William Ray and sisters Alice Ray, Vivian Williams and Mary Workman. Honoring Jim's wishes, a private memorial service will be held for immediate family. Contributions in memory of James E. Ray may be made to the Jamerson Family YMCA in Lynchburg where Jim volunteered and actively participated since relocating to Lynchburg in 2003 (https://www.ymcacva.org/give and select Campaigner "Trent, Jr., James ") Diuguid Funeral Service is assisting the family. To share a memory of Jim or to offer condolences, please visit https://diuguidfuneralservice.com