James Ray Costin

Mr. Costin, 90, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, April 29, 2012. Ray was born in Pikeville, NC in 1922, graduating from Pikeville High School, and attended Iowa State University. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and after the war he began working in electrical utilities, eventually owning and operating R & G Construction Co. for over forty years. He developed and constructed numerous golf courses, was active in Southern Skiing as the owner and operator of Beech Mountain Resort, and owned and operated Oceanside Village, a residential resort community. Ray will be remembered as someone who always tried to treat other people fairly and with respect. He was never too busy to lend a helping hand. He encouraged everyone to be their best, and to do their best.

Ray is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Louise, and three children, Janet (Jim) Blane, John Costin, Julie (Steven) Keim. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Alexis and Brent Blane, Shawn (Matt) Williams, Casey, Ryan, Jack, and Kelly Costin, Isabelle and Olivia Keim; and five great-grandchildren: Conner, Ben, Davis, and Jack Williams and Harper Costin. Ray has one surviving brother, Milford Costin.

Ray was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Effie Costin; two sisters, Inez Wall and Ruby Massey; and a brother, Earl Costin.

The family would like to extend a very special thanks to Kelly Fisher and Cassie Lansing for their wonderful love and care. We would also like to thank Presbyterian Hospice and Synergy Home Healthcare for their assistance and kindness.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at First Presbyterian Church, 200 W. Trade St. Charlotte. The family will receive friends following the service. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Presbyterian Hospice and Palliative Care, 324 N. McDowell St. Charlotte, NC 28204 or First Presbyterian TV Ministry, 200 W. Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28202.