Charles Ray Williams

Clayton - Charles Ray Williams, age 93, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Gabriel Manor Assisted Living Facility in Clayton. Born, October 16, 1931, in Hinton, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Alva and Blanche Williams. He was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of their four children, Rose, his second wife, Clara, and daughter, Karen Williams. He retired from a distinguished career as the Deputy Chief of the State Information Technology Systems for the State of North Carolina and directly reported to the Governor. He established a centralized technology center which reduced the overall costs in state government and provided the latest and most effective technology. In addition, he was presented “The Order of the Long Leaf Pine” by former Governor James B. Hunt. Beyond his professional achievements, he possessed a warm and generous spirit. He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom and great sense of humor. He lived a full and active life, and he enjoyed having family and friends in his home. He was a great lover of nature and wildlife. His favorite pastime was maintaining his immaculate yard, collecting rocks, and watching birds. Most days you could find him in his workshop engaged in his latest project. In addition, he accomplished a lifetime goal of visiting 48 of the continental U.S. states. He was an active member of Powhatan Original Free Will Baptist Church in Clayton, NC where he held several offices. He will be deeply missed by family and friends. Services for Charles will be at Powhatan Original Free Will Baptist Church, Clayton, NC on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Visitation - 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Celebration of his life - 2:00 p.m. until committal service will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park, 12830 Clayton Boulevard Clayton, North Carolina 27520.

Charles is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter, Connie Bass and husband, Mark; son, Ric Williams; daughter, Shelly McIntyre and husband, Bob; step-daughters Pam Crocker and husband, Anthony and Kim Batten and friend, Terry Keen (TK); grandchildren: Lane Williams, Shane Bass, Justin Christmas and wife, Elle, Hannah McIntyre, Guy McIntyre, step-grandchildren: Hillary Olive and husband Will, Kelson Crocker and friend, Layla Shayesteh, Dr. Lawson Batten and fiance, Dr. Emily Daniel, Kylie Preznuk and husband Brandon and great-grandchildren: Donovan-Hansen Williams, Spencer Mason, Amaya Williams and step-great grandchildren: Winston Grey Olive and Blythe Eleanor Olive. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Powhatan Original Free Will Baptist Church’s Laymen League: 3468 Powhatan Road, Clayton, NC 27527.