Joseph Alan Ray

Mr. Joseph Alan “Joe” Ray, 57, of Elberton, entered into rest suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday, March 1, 2021, at his residence.

Joe was born in Hinesville, GA, on April 30, 1963, son of the late Martha Nell Robinson Wells and Reuben Fredrick Ray. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his step-father, James Henry “Jimmy” Wells, Jr.; and sister, Marcia Ann Ray.

He is survived by his sons: Chancellor Joseph Ray of Tempe, AZ, Harrison James Ray of Elberton, GA, and Winston Joshua Ray of Tempe, AZ; sister, Pam Ray Elliotte and her husband Walter of Davidson, NC; nephews: James Myers Elliotte and his wife Ellen, of Charleston, SC and Tanner Robinson Elliotte of Mooresville, NC; niece, Caroline Voncile Elliotte of Raleigh, NC; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Joe started his career at Elberton Poultry and remained in the industry as management throughout his work life, having retired as Vice President of West Coast Operations for Custom Food Products. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Elberton and especially loved his Sunday School class. Joe was a 1981 graduate of Elbert County High School who attended the University of Georgia, and has been a loyal ‘dawg’ fan his whole life. He was an avid lifetime golfer and forged many lasting friendships. His involvement with the Keep Elbert County Beautiful (KECB) organization gave him great pride. 

Joe will lie instate at Berry Funeral Home on Thursday, March 4, from 12:00-4:30p.m. and on Friday, March 5, from 8:30-9:30a.m. for those wishing to pay their respects and sign the guestbook.

Graveside services celebrating Joe’s life will be held on Friday, March 5, at 11 o’clock at Forest Hills Memorial Park with the Rev. Tim Adams officiating. Pallbearers will include Mohsen Mehrabi, Jordan Chandler, Nick Thompson, Brian Winn, John Jetton, and Robin Childs.

Face masks are requested and friends are encouraged to bring their own chair as social distancing will be observed.

Flowers will be graciously appreciated by the family, or memorial contributions may be made in Joe’s memory to Keep Elbert County Beautiful, 1088 Ruckersville Road, Elberton, GA 30635.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. Joseph Alan “Joe” Ray.