Obituary of James E. Ray

THE VILLAGES – James E. Ray, 87, passed from this life on Thursday, October 10, 2019.

James was a retired executive for the Champion Lumber Co of Jacksonville, FL. He was also a gifted musician having the ability to play all instruments. His talents lead him to be on stage with Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and many others.  Following his retirement he moved with his late wife Eloise to Belleview, FL and eventually to The Villages.  James was a favorite musician at Spanish Springs entertaining and selling his own musical CDs.

He leaves his dear friend, Sandra Malfe, a son, Randy Ray, a step-daughter, Eileen Morris; brothers, Marvin, and Roy; sisters, Virginia, and Geraldine; three grandchildren and one great grandchild.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2918 at St. Timothy Catholic Church, The Villages at 8:30 AM. Burial will follow in Belleview Cemetery, Belleview, FL.