Louise Wilson Ray

Louise Wilson Ray passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, after a long and fulfilling life at the age of 105.

Louise was born in Willow Springs, North Carolina, on January 6, 1921. She was the daughter of Ernest and Bertha Parrish Wilson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William H. (Bill) Ray, Sr.; her daughter, Candace Ray Davis; and her siblings, James Wilson, Edith Wilson Matthews, and Pattie Wilson McGilvary.

She is survived by her son, William H. (Bill) Ray, Jr. (Charlene), of Sanford; her grandsons, Harris Ray of Sanford and Jeff Ray of Spring Lake; her son-in-law, William H. Davis, Jr. (Carol), of Sanford; and her grandsons, Brandon Davis (Nicole) of Tampa, Florida, Justin Davis (Alyssa) of Sanford, and Kyle Davis (Jeanne) of Henrico, Virginia. She is also survived by her six great-granddaughters, Ava, Ada, Lucy, Adelyn, Jules, and Bracey, as well as her beloved nieces and nephews. Louise was devoted to her family and her faith and lived her life with a true servant’s heart.

Louise was the youngest of four children. She grew up on the family farm in Willow Springs before moving with her family to Durham and later to their forever home in Lemon Springs. She graduated from Greenwood School and later earned a business degree from Elon College. After graduation, she returned to Sanford to work for John C. Muse, where she later met Bill. They were married in 1945 while he was serving in the United States Army. Throughout the years, Louise worked in bookkeeping for Marcus Cameron and Fred Ray, Jr. at Jonesboro Drug Store and faithfully supported her husband in the family business, Bankingport Insurance.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Louise grew up attending St. Andrews Presbyterian Church and, after marrying Bill, became a faithful and active member of Steele Street Methodist Church before later joining St. Luke United Methodist Church, where she remained a devoted member for the rest of her life. She was a loyal member of the Lucille Hunter Sunday School Class and served the church in many capacities. She will be especially remembered for her work with the Altar Guild, Women’s Circle, counting the church offering on Monday mornings, and delivering Meals on Wheels with her dear friend Jenny Heckle and later with her grandson, Harris, until she was 96 years old.

Many ministers and friends will forever cherish the Christmas tradition of receiving Louise’s homemade cheese straws each year. She faithfully prepared the Advent wreath for the church and found great joy in watching her grandsons light the Advent candles in memory of their late grandfather. She also treasured the fellowship and wonderful meals shared with the Keenagers, lovingly prepared by Kay Stout and many other dedicated ladies.

Louise was an active member of a local garden club for many years. She loved flowers both indoors and outdoors and eagerly anticipated spring each year so she could plant and beautify her yard. Her coffee table always displayed fresh flower arrangements from her garden, making her home warm and welcoming. Many Saturdays were spent traveling with her dear friend, Lucille Cameron, in search of the perfect hosta. She delighted in sharing plants from her garden with family and friends so they could enjoy their beauty as well.

Louise and Bill loved traveling together and attending Carolina football games. They were devoted University of North Carolina fans who faithfully followed all Carolina athletics. After Bill’s passing, Louise continued traveling with her sister, Pattie Mae, and other treasured companions. She was always known for staying active and on the go, a spirit reflected in the fact that she continued driving until she was 99 years old.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregivers—Claudette, Toni, Linda, Kelly, and Jennifer—who loved and cared for Louise so faithfully. They also extend sincere thanks to Parkview for their attentive care, and to First Presbyterian Church for graciously sharing its walking trail, which helped Louise maintain her mobility until the age of 104.

A service celebrating Louise’s life will be held at St. Luke United Methodist Church, 2916 Wicker Street, Sanford, North Carolina, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The family will receive friends in the St. Luke’s Ladies Parlor one hour prior to the service. The celebration of life will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the church sanctuary. A private burial at Buffalo Cemetery, where Louise was laid to rest beside her beloved husband and daughter took place earlier.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke United Methodist Church, 2916 Wicker Street, Sanford, NC 27330, or to the charity of one’s choice.