Mr. Charles Thomas Ray

Charles Thomas Ray, age 90, passed peacefully, on November 4, 2017. A joyous reunion took place as he reunited with his parents, Giles and Mary Alice Burns Ray; his beloved grandson, Spencer Kile Alford; and countless other family members and friends who preceded him on this journey. A loving husband, daddy, papaw, uncle, brother and friend, Charles leaves behind his loving wife of 66 years, Sara Louise Chisam Ray; sister, Judith Carol Ray; children and their spouses, Anita Ray Fugatt (Ron), David Ray (Debbie), Karen Ray Bowles (Dan); grandchildren, Brian Hayes (Jean), Ben Hayes (Deanna), Christy Ray Smith (Lee), Lauren Alford; and great grandchildren, Justin Hayes, Coral Hayes, Gavin Hayes, Charlie Ray Hayes, Chandler Hayes, and Ellison Alford. Charles will be deeply missed for his gentle presence in our lives and his unfaltering devotion to his family. He will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and his unconditional love. Charles exemplified the true essence of being a loving husband, daddy, and papaw. A veteran of WWII, Charles served in the United States Army in Korea from 1946 to 1948. Following his military service, Charles left his hometown of Shelbyville, Tennessee, and began his 41year career at the DuPont plant in Chattanooga. In 1951, he married his one true love, Sara Chisam, and they created a beautiful life of love. Charles served for many years as an active member and deacon at Hixson 1st Baptist Church. He was also a member of American Legion Post 159, Hixson. Charles shared his friendly smile and loving heart with others throughout the world as he travelled extensively, as he served others through his Christian faith, and as a person who never met a stranger. Charles, you kind and gentle soul, we are thankful for the lessons you taught us, and the love you showered upon us. We will forever miss you. Our love for you will never fade. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 7, from 5 to 7 pm; and on Wednesday, November 8, from noon to 1 pm, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN. Memorial service will be held Wednesday, November 8, at 1 pm, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Charles’ memory to Hospice of Chattanooga or to Hixson 1st Baptist Church. Arrangements are held by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.