Mabel Whisenhunt Ray passed peacefully on July 2, 2024 at the age of 85, surrounded in love and compassion from her family and friends.

A graveside service coordinated by Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington will be held at Riverside Cemetery in North, South Carolina on July 19 at 10:00 AM. For those unable to attend, the service will be streaming live via the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/f24073479820600

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Ruth Whisenhunt; her sisters, Delean Pellet and Jim Vallentine; her brothers-in-law, Jakie Vallentine, Roger Kellogg, Bob Hughes and Rene` Pellet. She is survived by her children, Stephanie Ray Spohn (Don), Lawrence Ray (Karen), Leslie Ray (Audrey); her sisters, Margie Hughes, Mary Ellen Kellogg, and Judy Thompson; grandchildren, Blake Hagwood (Ashley), Taylor Ray, Palmer Ray (Logan), Thomas Ray, Jake Ray (Emily) Cooper Ray-Geste, Kelly Spohn Martin (Nick) and David Spohn (Alania). Mabel was blessed with 15 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors and friends, each cherished and beloved. She is also survived by the father of her children, Kenneth Ray. 

Mabel held a steadfast love, devotion and loyalty to her family and set a beautiful example of how to selflessly love and care for family and friends. She often said that she was here on earth to help a person (there were many) who was in need of a friend. Mabel's kind-hearted and generous nature was an inspiration those around her. She enriched the lives of many with her delicious cooking and lively personality, bringing people together and always sparking an atmosphere for lively conversation and laughter. Her famous pimento cheese and Christmas fruitcakes have been enjoyed by many throughout the years and are examples of her love of sharing with and caring for others.

Mabel’s greatest strength was in how she faced challenges in life, with dignity, grace and a sharp sense of humour. She thrived as a homemaker and especially enjoyed cooking and preparing feasts for her family and friends. Mabel loved playing bridge, bird watching, putting together puzzles and could always keep everyone entertained with a good joke. She had great faith and was a proud member of the First Baptist Church of North.