Ray Edward Stephenson passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, at Beacon Place.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Vandalia Baptist Church with Reverend Donnie Oates officiating.  The burial will take place at 2:00 pm at Oakland Heights Cemetery in Smithfield NC. The family will receive friends from 10 until 10:30 am prior to the service at the church.

Ray was born November 26, 1946, in Smithfield NC to the late Abraham and Mazie Stephenson. Ray served two years in the U.S. Army.  He was a district manager at K&W and J&S Cafeterias for over thirty years. After retiring from J&S he drove a bus for Guilford County Schools for fifteen years. Ray was the true epitome of a family man. He always tried to attend family gatherings and reunions. He would often travel many miles to attend. Ray was an avid Tarheel fan and enjoyed Atlanta Braves baseball. Ray enjoyed working in his yard and keeping it immaculate. He also enjoyed planting and working in his garden every year. Ray raised three wonderful children who were truly the apple of his eye. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Those who knew him will remember him for his extreme kindness and gentle heart.

He was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Faye Stephenson; and sisters, Sue (Harold), Martha (Aaron), and Alice (Bill).

Ray is survived by his caring wife of over thirty years, Lisa; son, Edward (Heather); daughters, Rhonda (Wayne) and Kristie (James); three loving grandchildren, Trey, Tori and Elizabeth who he adored more than life itself; brothers, Billy (Hazel), and Eugene (Arlene); sisters, Judy (Elmer) and Elaine Hamilton; and many beloved nieces, nephews and in-laws.