Mrs Nell Thompson Ray

Mrs. Nell Thompson Ray, 103 years 11 months, finished her long journey to meet her lord on Saturday, January 9, 2021. Born February 2, 1917 the daughter of Ola Montgomery Thompson and John Walker Thompson, both deceased. She was the wife of the late James Carl Ray to whom she was married for 62 years at the time of his death in 1997.

Nell graduated from Haw River High School in 1935 and attended King’s Beauty in Greensboro. She owned and operated Nell’s Beauty Shop for 42 years.

A lifelong member of Haw River United Methodist Church, she was also a member of The Thelma Cates Sunday School Class.

She was a member of the Haw River Senior Citizens Club, The Haw River Historical Association and the Senior Advantage Walkers.

She was a Girl Scout Leader (1967-1972), loved to raise vegetable and flower gardens, cook, host family gatherings and play scrabble.

In addition to her husband, Carl, she is predeceased by her son, Jerry Keith (Duke) Ray, sister, Joy Thompson Harrison, and many beloved uncles, aunts and cousins from the Haw River Montgomery Clan.

She is survived by her son, Daniel J. Ray and Wife Sandra and daughter-in-law, Jewel Lamb Ray, all of Graham; three grandchildren, Michael K. Ray and wife Ginger of Graham, Jennifer R. Adams and husband Shane, Douglas (Dr. Doug) Ray DVM and wife Leslie B. Ray of Haw River. Six great granddaughters, Kristi Ray Hicks and husband John, Katie Ray, Abby and Carly Adams, and Aida and Piper Ray. A special niece, Frieda Sue Murray and husband Don, and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM, Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Haw River United Methodist Church with Rev. Laure Kalau officiating.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Liberty Commons and AuthoraCare for their dedication for caring for our mother and grandmother.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to AuthoraCare Hospice, 914 Chapel Hill Rd., Burlington, NC 27215 or to Haw River United Methodist Church, 127 Church Circle Dr., Haw River, NC 27258.

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