David Franklin Ray, age 74 and longtime resident of Saraland, Alabama passed away on Friday, July 3, 2026. He is preceded in death by his parents, Willie Ray and Katie Hall Ray and brother Rupert Author “Bobby” Ray.
Mr. Ray was a 1970 graduate of Vigor High School. He was employed with Campbell Piping, McFarland Construction and retired after 34 years with Industrial Valve.
He and his wife Sharon Jones Ray were married in 1971 and shared a strong marriage over their 55 years.
David was an avid golfer, loved the Auburn Tigers and enjoyed mowing his lawn, the neighbors that couldn’t mow their own lawns and his church’s lawn as well. He was a member of The Outpost Church in Irvington, Alabama for the past few years. He enjoyed spending time and watching his grandkids and when his daughters were younger, coaching and watching them play softball.
He is survived by his loving wife Sharon Ray and their fur baby Sophie Lee. His daughters Lesley Ray Head (David) and Haley Ray Lambert (Jake) also survive him. Grandchildren Katie Sarah Head (Leighton Hall), Trent Alexander Irvin (Alayah) and Taylor Head Harvey (Michael) and nephew Darius Ray and niece Lana Ray will all cherish his memory.
Visitation will be held at Radney Funeral Home-Saraland on Saturday, July 11, 2026 beginning at 11:30 a.m. with funeral services in the funeral home chapel beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow immediately in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Saraland, AL.
Serving as pallbearers will be Alan Caprara, Xan Irvin, Sambo Bowden, Richard Crowe, Austin Jones and Ernie Carlisle. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Michael Harvey, Leighton Hall, Stu Padgett and John Salter.
In lieu of flowers please donate in the memory of David Ray to The Outpost Church, 7250 Highway 90, Irvington, AL 36544.
The family would like to invite family and friends to a Celebration of Life Reception back at the funeral home immediately following the graveside service.
Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-saraland.com
