James Ray Welborn Sr.

Irmo, South Carolina - Mr. James Ray Welborn, 84, of Irmo, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2022. Mr. Welborn was born in Marion, NC December 6, 1937 and was the son of the late Robert James and Thelma Hazel Gouge Welborn. Mr. Welborn was a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

He was a devoted husband, father, brother and Christian. He played and sang Gospel Music as early as grade school and wrote numerous songs. In addition to singing he played the piano and bass guitar in his home church where he served for many years as the adult Sunday School teacher. His knowledge of the Bible was vast.

Mr. Welborn’s love of music was rivaled by his love of sweets, woodworking and growing roses.

He spent the majority of his career in the newsprint industry retiring with Knight Ridder. Preceding Mr. Welborn in death was his wife, Carolyn Helms Welborn, who passed away March 18, 2009. Saddened by the loss of Mr. Welborn is his sister Nelda Gaffney of Spokane Valley; daughter, Emily Lewis and husband David of Lexington; son James Welborn and wife, Jennifer, of Irmo and grandchildren, Caleb and Caitlin Lewis and Dovie Welborn.

Service arrangements are to be determined. Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.