Candis Opalee Ray

Candis O. Ray, a native of Lenoir, North Carolina, passed away on January 31, 2017, at the age of 99. She was the daughter of Dr. Robert L. Ray (a veterinarian doctor) and Jennie Keller Ray, who owned and operated Ray’s Clothing Store in Lenoir, on Main Street , for about fifty years. She is the sister of Mary Thelms Ray Jonas and William P. Ray, both deceased.

She is survived by a nephew, John K. Jonas, Jr. ,of Candler, North Carolina and his five living children, Johnny, Bryan, Michelle, Jonathon and J.K., and their children.

Candis’ career in radio and television has been wide and varied, starting early in life as a radio commercial writer and journalist, after writing her first book at the age of 23. She owned and operated a recognized Advertising Agency, specializing in the production of radio and television shows in Washington, DC, Atlanta, GA and New York, NY.

Her biography and accomplishments in the business world and her well-known philanthropic activities are listed in the “World’s Who’s Who of Women”.

A graveside service to honor Ms. Ray will be held at Blue Ridge Memorial Park in Lenoir, NC at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 5, 2017, with Reverend Jimmie D. Richards officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 5, 2017 at Valdese Family Funeral Care and Perfect Peace Cremations in Valdese, NC.

Arrangements under the direction of Valdese Family Funeral Care and Cremation Service, Valdese, NC.