William Paul Ray

Those who knew Paul knew they were blessed to know someone truly special. He was a man with a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and a quick wit that could bring a smile to anyone’s face. His greatest impact was not measured by his many accomplishments, but by the love he gave and genuine kindness he showed.

Born on August 26, 1940, in Chester, Mississippi, Paul was one of eight children. The love he had for his siblings reflected the importance he placed on family throughout his life, a value he carried forward in the family he built.

Yet, despite his many professional accomplishments, Paul would have been the first to tell you that the roles that mattered most were those of husband, father, grandfather “Papa”, and friend.

For 62 years, he shared a beautiful life with his wife, Marlec Ray, who was his lifelong love and partner. Together, they built a home rooted in faith, laughter, and unconditional love. He was a devoted father to his sons, William Jeffrey Ray and Joey Paul Ray, and was a constant presence in their lives, loving them deeply and offering unwavering support and guidance throughout their lives.

Among the many roles he treasured throughout his life, being “Papa” held a special place in his heart. His four grandchildren, Jerrod Ray, Abbie Ray Dean, Audrey Ray, and Nolan Ray, brought him tremendous joy and pride. He showed his love through the moments that mattered most, from cheering them on at baseball and softball tournaments, to teaching them how to hunt and fish, crouching behind the plate to catch for them in the backyard, and instilling in them the values of life. To them, Papa’s greatest gift was simply that he was always there.

After serving eight years in the National Guard and earning his college degree, Paul began his career as a Certified Public Accountant. Through dedication and integrity, he founded Ray & Shelton, which later became Way, Ray & Shelton, a respected accounting firm that has served the Tuscaloosa community for more than 30 years. He earned the trust and respect of generations of clients and colleagues, not only because of his professional expertise, but because of the character behind it.

His commitment to serving others extended far beyond his profession. He served for 15 years on the Board of Trustees at DCH Regional Medical Center and was an officer of the Tuscaloosa Civitan Club. His service was also deeply rooted in his faith and his church community, where he served as a Sunday School teacher, church lay leader, and member of financial committees.

Always looking for new ways to serve others, Paul later discovered a love for singing and took lessons, eventually becoming part of the Marksmen quartet at St. Mark Church. Through music, he brought comfort and encouragement to people in nursing homes, churches, and at funerals. One of his deepest prayers and heart’s desires was that his family, friends, and all those he encountered would know Christ, follow His Word, and live out their faith with the same love and devotion he sought to embody.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Amos Ray and Elizabeth Ray; his sisters, Jimmie Sue Jackson and Lynda Joyce Ray; and his brother, JR Ray.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Marlec Kitchens Ray; his sons, William Jeff Ray (Wendy Ray) and Joey Paul Ray (Kelli Ray); his cherished grandchildren, Jerrod Ray, Abbie Ray Dean (Parker), Audrey Ray, and Nolan Ray; his siblings, Beth Ott (Joe), Debbie Murphy (Bill), Faye Grosinske (Gary), and Amy McCarty (Mike); and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were made better by knowing him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the SouthernCare Hospice team, Way, Ray & Shelton (WRS), friends, and loved ones who surrounded Paul with compassion and care during his final days.

Visitation for William will be held at Sunset Funeral Home on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12:00 pm with Bro. Bill Murphy officiating. Burial will take place in Sunset Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Jerrod Ray, Abbie Ray Dean, Audrey Ray, Nolan Ray, Parker Dean, and Doug Acker. Honorary pallbearers will be Steve Shelton, Bob Way, WRS colleagues, Joe Ott, Gary Grosinske, Bill Murphy, Mike McCarty, SouthernCare Hospice, Dr. John Summerford, Dr. John Crew, and St. Mark Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Help and Hope Fund through the DCH Foundation, supporting the continued care and hope they provide to others facing cancer.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Paul’s legacy lives on through the people he loved, the lessons he taught, and the example he set. He showed us that a life well lived is measured not by accomplishments, but by faith, character, humor, kindness, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a beloved husband, father, brother, friend, and Papa.