Hazel McCullen Ray

Hazel McCullen Ray, age 86, of Clayton, North Carolina passed away on Monday, July 31, 2023. Hazel was born December 14, 1936 to John Henry McCullen and Clider Thompson McCullen. She was one of six children. She was born and raised in rural Sampson County and graduated from Halls School as salutatorian of her graduating class in 1954. She worked various clerical jobs before earning her Associates Degree in Accounting while working full time and raising two children. The remainder of her working career was spent in various positions within financial accounting.

Hazel was an avid reader and served as the Mount Moriah Baptist Church librarian for many years and was a dedicated member of the ladies book club. She was a faithful member of Mount Moriah Baptist Church for over 30 years and enjoyed attending Sunday School, Worship Service, Wednesday Prayer Service and fellowship meals, Women's Circle Group and the Triple L (LLL) Club. She enjoyed various forms of exercise, especially water aerobics and cardio machines. She was a faithful member of Rex Wellness Center for over 20 years before the facility closed. She cherished spending time with her family, especially the young children, and learning of their latest adventures and achievements.

Hazel was preceded in death by her father, mother, sister Shirley Wittig, brother Shelton McCullen, sister Elaine Allen and first husband Marvin Gainey.

Hazel is survived by her husband William Kelton Ray, sisters Grace Weeks and Faye Day, daughter Rhonda Houchens (Ronnie), son Kenneth Gainey (Charlene), stepson Preston Ray (Sue), and stepdaughter Valerie Blankenship (Blair); Grandchildren: Daniel Houchens (Jennifer), Kevin Houchens (Meredith), Alec Gainey (Kenzie), Cole Gainey, Robbie Stephens, Heather Wilson (Jason), Brandy Dunlow (Tim), Indy Ray (Stephen), Marissa Jessup (Jacob) and 7 great-grandchildren.

A visitation for Hazel will be held Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Mount Moriah Baptist Church, 3000 E Garner Rd, Raleigh, North Carolina 27610. A funeral service will occur Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 2:00 PM, 3000 E Garner Rd, Raleigh, North Carolina 27610. A graveside service will occur Saturday, August 5, 2023 at Mount Moriah Baptist Church Cemetery, 3000 E Garner Rd, Raleigh, North Carolina 27610.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Hazel's memory may be made to Mount Moriah Baptist Church Building Fund, 3000 E Garner Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601 US.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mclaurinatpinecrest.com for the Ray family.