Samuel Ray Kilby

Born in 1953 in the small town of Clayton, Georgia, Ray developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. Growing up in the North Georgia mountains, he learned to appreciate nature through fishing, hunting, and spending time in the woods he cherished so deeply. His love for the mountains never left him and remained a defining part of who he was throughout his life.

At just 17 years old, Ray answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He proudly served from 1972 to 1974 and spent two years stationed in Germany. His military service instilled in him a strong sense of duty, resilience, and dedication that would guide him throughout the rest of his life.

While visiting his aunt and uncle in Detroit, Michigan, Ray met the love of his life, Linda. The two were married in 1976 and shared fifty years of love, partnership, and devotion. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and unwavering commitment. In 1981, they welcomed their daughter, Leta, who became one of his greatest joys.

Although he spent many years away from his beloved mountains, Ray ultimately returned to the region he loved. In 1995, he moved with his family to Greeneville, Tennessee, where he lived for the remainder of his life. There, he devoted himself to caring for his family and enjoying the hobbies that brought him the greatest happiness.

Ray was known for his strong work ethic and spent more than twenty years working for John Deere Power Products before retiring at the age of 66. Retirement allowed him to spend more time pursuing the interests he loved most, beekeeping and working on cars. He was an avid beekeeper for 20 years and took great pride in tending his hives. Whether he was under the hood of a car, in the woods, or spending time with family, Ray was happiest when working with his hands and enjoying life's simple pleasures.

Above all else, Ray was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, steadfast dedication to those he loved and his deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. His kindness, wisdom, and dependability touched the lives of many and will leave a lasting legacy for those who knew him.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Kilby; his daughter, Leta Bishop and son-in-law, Mitch Bishop; his sister, Donna Sue Welborn and her husband, Robin Welborn; his special uncle, Johnny Kilby; and several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory and carry his legacy forward.

The family will receive friends 12:00-1:30 pm on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home. Graveside service will then be conducted at 2:00 pm at Gethsemane Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Steve Taylor, Mitch Bishop, Josh Nease, Jordan Nease, Johnathan Waddell, and Tony Nease.

Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever. His daughter and son-in-law took up the duties of beekeeping and will continue to care for his bees and carry his legacy.

"The mountains he loved may stand silent, but his spirit will forever be found among them."

Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kiserrosehillfuneralhome.com