William Ray Rackley

Mr. William ‘Ray’ Rackley, 86, of Dewy Rose, GA, husband of Shelby Smith Rackley, passed away on Thursday evening, January 12, 2023, at St. Mary’s Hospice House in Watkinsville, GA.

Mr. Rackley was born in Trion, Chatooga County, GA on November 5, 1936, only child of the late Melvin Elgin Rackley and Edna Pierce Rackley. After retirement from Mead Packaging Company in the mid 1980s, Ray and Shelby left Atlanta life for a simple life in the country, and quickly made the Thirteen Forks Community home. He enjoyed farming, raising hogs, and working in his flower gardens. Ray was a talented mechanic who enjoyed “tinkering” on old tractors and old cars. Only second to being with his family, Ray’s favorite pastime was motorcycle rides, especially to the mountains. He attended West End Baptist Church and formerly attended Vesta Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Shelby Smith Rackley; and a large family of Smith siblings-in-law, nieces, and nephews, all of whom Ray loved dearly.

Funeral services celebrating Ray’s life will be held on Sunday afternoon, January 15, at 3 o’clock in the Memorial Chapel of Berry Funeral Home, officiated by the Revs. Richard Fife and Russell Bruce. Entombment will follow in the Forest Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum.

The family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service.

Flowers are accepted and contributions may be made in his memory to West End Baptist Church, 811 Mercer Drive, Elberton, GA 30635.

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

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton, GA is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. William ‘Ray’ Rackley.