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Celebrating the life of

James A. Ray, III

July 01, 1953 - February 02, 2008

James A. Ray, III

James A. "Jimmy" Ray, III, 54, died Saturday February 2, 2008 in South Carolina.

Mr. Ray, the native of Savannah was a graduate of H.V. Jenkins High School and continued his formal education at Armstrong State College where he earned his degree in Physical Education. Beginning in high school he worked as a lifeguard for the YMCA in Savannah. He was employed by the YMCA for over twenty years, working lastly with the Upper Palmetto YMCA in Rock Hill, SC as Chief Operations Officer. Jimmy was a former President of the Simpsonville, SC Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Winthrop University Eagles Club, a former member of Rock Hill Lodge No. 111, F.&A.M. and a member of Rocky Creek Baptist Church in Greenville, SC.

Mr. Ray is survived by his wife of 31 years, Pamela Ray; sons, Michael Ray of Myrtle Beach, SC, Matthew Ray of Rock Hill, SC and Andrew Ray of Columbia, SC; mother, Martha Sinclair Ray; father, James A. Ray, Jr.; brother and sister-in-law; William and Terry Ray and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation: 6:00-8:00 PM Wednesday at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.

Graveside Funeral Service: 2:00 PM Thursday at Bonaventure Cemetery.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, February 10, 2008 at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, 1801 Woodruff Rd., Greenville, SC.

Remembrances: Upper Palmetto YMCA, 323 Oakland Ave., Rock Hill, SC 29730.

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Pam and family: Diane and I send our heart felt condolences to you and your family at the loss of Jimmy. I knew Jimmy both in high school and during our time at the Savannah YMCA as members of the Leaders Club. Simply put, he was a great guy, someone you felt proud to call 'friend'. We were all blessed to have known him.

- Jody Hunter, Atlanta, GA

Mr. and Mrs. Ray, and Billy, It has been so many years since we were neighbors and our families played together as children and enjoyed each other. I am so sorry for your loss but comforted in knowing that Heaven now has another wonderful person. Jimmy was a childhood friend whose life blossomed and grew. He surely touched many people in special ways and was a loving husband and father. May the grace of God be with you. I am sure that your son and older brother is smiling right now, happier that ever, and waiting for the opportunity to be with each of you again. Terry Dismukes

- Terry Dismukes, Richmond Hill, GA

I worked with Jimmy at Cryovac. We are all going to miss him.

- Don O'Shields, Simpsonville, SC

Pam, Michael, Matt, and Andy, I am so sorry for your loss. Your family means so much to ours. We will continue to remember all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Cherry & Burt Baynes

- Cherry Baynes, Simpsonville, SC

I worked with Jimmy at Cryovac. I thought a lot of him. Wish their were more people like him in this world.

- Bobby Gault, Simpsonville, SC

My love for my coach goes back to 1979 when he coached both me and my sister Kim. I was blessed to have him as a coach and friend. I was also blessed to have babysat their first born Michael Ray. One of my fondest 'bittersweet' memories of Jimmy Ray occured when my mother died. I refused to get out of bed but then Jimmy Ray came to my side and convinced me to get up and out of bed. Jimmy Ray thank you for all the compassion you showed to everyone. I look forward to seeing you at the Heavens YMCA. I have no doubt that the 'Angels' will win every swim meet. Pam and sons my thoughts and prayers are with you.

- Leslie Highfill, Charlotte, NC

Dear Pam and Sons, Betty and I are extremely saddened to hear of your loss of Jimmy. He was a wonderful friend, neighbor and roll model for what every man should be. Please accept our condolences and be assured that we will pray daily for your comfort during this time of pain. The entire City of Simpsonville will be forever grateful for the many contributions that Jimmy made to our community while he lived here. We have had a void that has been impossible to fill since you moved away, and now we all have a void in our hearts. So, on behalf of all the citizens of Simpsonville, SC, I extend our sympathy, but also our thanks for everything that you and Jimmy contributed to to our betterment while you were here. God's comfort to you all.

- Mayor Dennis Waldrop, Simpsonville, SC

Pam, Sharon and I were devastated to hear the news about Jimmy. We were excited to see you the last couple years and we had just talked about we couldn't wait to set up a get together in March. The two years we all spent in Rock Hill back in the late 70's were two of the best years of our life. I still can't get over the news when Moe called us Sunday morning. I have put you and the boys on our prayer chain here at church.We are the largest Methodist church in S.C. with 3200 members so I know you have been getting alot of prayers. If there is anything Sharon And I can do please let us know. You will continue to be in our prayers. Love Greg & Sharon Smith.

- Greg & Sharon Smith, Summerville, SC

Pam & family, My heart aches, but the legacy Jimmy leaves behind is indescribable. I know you are so proud of him. Allow your friends to help you through this difficult time and know that we are praying for you.

- Miriam Martin, Simpsonville, SC

Dear Pam and Family, Growing up, Jimmy was my best friend in jr. high and high school and I have followed his career and been so proud of him. I have never had a better friend than Jimmy and his death is a big loss. My prayers and condolences go out to Pam, Jimmy's mother, and the rest of the family. Heaven may be brighter tonight but this world lost a bright star.

- Carl Brantley, Colorado Springs, CO

Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of Jimmy. I serve on the Y board in Chester and would see him once a month and I am shocked by this. He was a wonderful man and always the gentleman. Keeping you in my prayers and thoughts. Sincerely, Sharon W. Bickett Chester YMCA

- Sharon Bickett, Chester, TN

Jimmy was truly a Gentleman and one who reflected his Christian character in all his dealing with his fellow man. May God Bless your family during this difficult time. Frank G.

- Frank Gossett, Simpsonville, SC

I was so shocked to hear about Jimmy. He was such a wonderful man! The Simpsonville Chamber wouldn't have been the same without him. I was remembering all he did including the golf tournaments, the Labor Day Festival, the Christmas Parade, and being a wonderful Chamber President. Most of all I just remember a wonderful, caring man who was always there when I needed him. You and your boys are in my prayers, Pam. Love, Sheila

- Sheila Harmon, Simpsonville, SC

Pam-my dear sweet friend-Please know that my thoughts are with you and my heart aches for you. Jim and I have you and your boys in our prayers. God will give you strength. There is no doubt where Jimmy is at this moment. Love you. Gail

- Gail Knowles, Simpsonville, SC

Pam, Michael, Matt and my dear Andy, Words cannot express how saddened we are by Jimmy's passing. Jeff said last night that Jimmy was always a reminder to him about what type of man he should be..honest, faithful, loyal, fair, loving and true..He is surely with God already. Greg thinks of him as another father..How blessed he was to have Jimmy coach he and Andy all those years. We love you all like family and are praying for strength for you all. Much love, Stacey, Jeff, Greg and Rae

- Stacey, Jeff, Greg and Rae Jaeggi, Simpsonville, SC

Lee Mathis called us with news we did not want to hear. What great memories we have of our years together. Pam, we pray for God to comfort you and the boys. As for some reason Jimmy always called us- Mr. Murphy & Miz Murphy

- Jack & Kathy Murphy, Simpsonville, SC

Jimmy was a true reflection of God. I remember him during our years on the Simpsonville Chamber Board. Jimmy often did the devotional at our planning retreats and I remember his deep stong voice yet gentle words. He will be sorely missed. Pam, we pray for God's strength and comfort for you and the boys.

- Darlene and Larry Pope, Greer, SC

No words can adequately express the shock and sorrow felt when news was relayed to us about Jimmy's passing. Pam, please know that I will be praying for you and your boys during this very difficult time. Jimmy was a wonderful example of Christ while on this earth. I know that all of heaven rejoiced when he joined them! He is home with our Father. I pray that you will all have peace, strength and comfort during this time. Know that those of us here at RCBC miss and love you!

- Noel Wilson, Greenville, SC

Based on my knowledge of Jimmy Ray, he was an excellent example of what a good man should be. With this said, I am sure all is well between Jimmy and God. May God bless all his family and allow everyone to use him as a beacon for their lives.

- Al Boland, Greer, SC

Pam and family: Diane and I send our heart felt condolences to you and your family at the loss of Jimmy. I knew Jimmy both in high school and during our time at the Savannah YMCA as members of the Leaders Club. Simply put, he was a great guy, someone you felt proud to call 'friend'. We were all blessed to have known him.

- Jody Hunter, Atlanta, GA

Mr. and Mrs. Ray, and Billy, It has been so many years since we were neighbors and our families played together as children and enjoyed each other. I am so sorry for your loss but comforted in knowing that Heaven now has another wonderful person. Jimmy was a childhood friend whose life blossomed and grew. He surely touched many people in special ways and was a loving husband and father. May the grace of God be with you. I am sure that your son and older brother is smiling right now, happier that ever, and waiting for the opportunity to be with each of you again. Terry Dismukes

- Terry Dismukes, Richmond Hill, GA

I worked with Jimmy at Cryovac. We are all going to miss him.

- Don O'Shields, Simpsonville, SC

Pam, Michael, Matt, and Andy, I am so sorry for your loss. Your family means so much to ours. We will continue to remember all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Cherry & Burt Baynes

- Cherry Baynes, Simpsonville, SC

I worked with Jimmy at Cryovac. I thought a lot of him. Wish their were more people like him in this world.

- Bobby Gault, Simpsonville, SC

My love for my coach goes back to 1979 when he coached both me and my sister Kim. I was blessed to have him as a coach and friend. I was also blessed to have babysat their first born Michael Ray. One of my fondest 'bittersweet' memories of Jimmy Ray occured when my mother died. I refused to get out of bed but then Jimmy Ray came to my side and convinced me to get up and out of bed. Jimmy Ray thank you for all the compassion you showed to everyone. I look forward to seeing you at the Heavens YMCA. I have no doubt that the 'Angels' will win every swim meet. Pam and sons my thoughts and prayers are with you.

- Leslie Highfill, Charlotte, NC

Dear Pam and Sons, Betty and I are extremely saddened to hear of your loss of Jimmy. He was a wonderful friend, neighbor and roll model for what every man should be. Please accept our condolences and be assured that we will pray daily for your comfort during this time of pain. The entire City of Simpsonville will be forever grateful for the many contributions that Jimmy made to our community while he lived here. We have had a void that has been impossible to fill since you moved away, and now we all have a void in our hearts. So, on behalf of all the citizens of Simpsonville, SC, I extend our sympathy, but also our thanks for everything that you and Jimmy contributed to to our betterment while you were here. God's comfort to you all.

- Mayor Dennis Waldrop, Simpsonville, SC

Pam, Sharon and I were devastated to hear the news about Jimmy. We were excited to see you the last couple years and we had just talked about we couldn't wait to set up a get together in March. The two years we all spent in Rock Hill back in the late 70's were two of the best years of our life. I still can't get over the news when Moe called us Sunday morning. I have put you and the boys on our prayer chain here at church.We are the largest Methodist church in S.C. with 3200 members so I know you have been getting alot of prayers. If there is anything Sharon And I can do please let us know. You will continue to be in our prayers. Love Greg & Sharon Smith.

- Greg & Sharon Smith, Summerville, SC

Pam & family, My heart aches, but the legacy Jimmy leaves behind is indescribable. I know you are so proud of him. Allow your friends to help you through this difficult time and know that we are praying for you.

- Miriam Martin, Simpsonville, SC

Dear Pam and Family, Growing up, Jimmy was my best friend in jr. high and high school and I have followed his career and been so proud of him. I have never had a better friend than Jimmy and his death is a big loss. My prayers and condolences go out to Pam, Jimmy's mother, and the rest of the family. Heaven may be brighter tonight but this world lost a bright star.

- Carl Brantley, Colorado Springs, CO

Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of Jimmy. I serve on the Y board in Chester and would see him once a month and I am shocked by this. He was a wonderful man and always the gentleman. Keeping you in my prayers and thoughts. Sincerely, Sharon W. Bickett Chester YMCA

- Sharon Bickett, Chester, TN

Jimmy was truly a Gentleman and one who reflected his Christian character in all his dealing with his fellow man. May God Bless your family during this difficult time. Frank G.

- Frank Gossett, Simpsonville, SC

I was so shocked to hear about Jimmy. He was such a wonderful man! The Simpsonville Chamber wouldn't have been the same without him. I was remembering all he did including the golf tournaments, the Labor Day Festival, the Christmas Parade, and being a wonderful Chamber President. Most of all I just remember a wonderful, caring man who was always there when I needed him. You and your boys are in my prayers, Pam. Love, Sheila

- Sheila Harmon, Simpsonville, SC

Pam-my dear sweet friend-Please know that my thoughts are with you and my heart aches for you. Jim and I have you and your boys in our prayers. God will give you strength. There is no doubt where Jimmy is at this moment. Love you. Gail

- Gail Knowles, Simpsonville, SC

Pam, Michael, Matt and my dear Andy, Words cannot express how saddened we are by Jimmy's passing. Jeff said last night that Jimmy was always a reminder to him about what type of man he should be..honest, faithful, loyal, fair, loving and true..He is surely with God already. Greg thinks of him as another father..How blessed he was to have Jimmy coach he and Andy all those years. We love you all like family and are praying for strength for you all. Much love, Stacey, Jeff, Greg and Rae

- Stacey, Jeff, Greg and Rae Jaeggi, Simpsonville, SC

Lee Mathis called us with news we did not want to hear. What great memories we have of our years together. Pam, we pray for God to comfort you and the boys. As for some reason Jimmy always called us- Mr. Murphy & Miz Murphy

- Jack & Kathy Murphy, Simpsonville, SC

Jimmy was a true reflection of God. I remember him during our years on the Simpsonville Chamber Board. Jimmy often did the devotional at our planning retreats and I remember his deep stong voice yet gentle words. He will be sorely missed. Pam, we pray for God's strength and comfort for you and the boys.

- Darlene and Larry Pope, Greer, SC

No words can adequately express the shock and sorrow felt when news was relayed to us about Jimmy's passing. Pam, please know that I will be praying for you and your boys during this very difficult time. Jimmy was a wonderful example of Christ while on this earth. I know that all of heaven rejoiced when he joined them! He is home with our Father. I pray that you will all have peace, strength and comfort during this time. Know that those of us here at RCBC miss and love you!

- Noel Wilson, Greenville, SC

Based on my knowledge of Jimmy Ray, he was an excellent example of what a good man should be. With this said, I am sure all is well between Jimmy and God. May God bless all his family and allow everyone to use him as a beacon for their lives.

- Al Boland, Greer, SC

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200