Bobby G. Ray was born on August 15, 1939, in Chester County, Tennessee, the son of Guy Wade Ray and Mary Lillard Whitten Ray. He was united in marriage to Flora Janette Barham on May 4, 1963.

Mr. Ray was a graduate of Bethel Springs High School, Class of 1958. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for over two years. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Specialist E-5, earning both Marksman and Sharpshooter distinctions.

After settling in Finger, Tennessee, Mr. Ray began his career with Tull Brothers, Inc. in Corinth, Mississippi, where he learned the door and glass industry. Together, they later established a successful company, Ray Glass & Door Co. in Jackson, Tennessee, which he operated for many years. Following a merger with Tull Brothers, Inc., he served as General Manager for several years before eventually founding I-40 Glass & Door in Jackson, where he remained owner until his retirement.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ray touched many lives through his leadership and dedication, treating his employees like family and serving his customers with care and integrity. Known for his warm and outgoing nature, he never met a stranger, and his witty personality earned him lifelong friendships. His “Bob Ray-isms” were endless and never failed to bring a smile to those around him.

Although he worked tirelessly to build a successful business, his greatest accomplishment was his family. He took great pride in leading and teaching them to love and serve the Lord. Mr. Ray was a cornerstone member and longtime deacon of Central Baptist Church, faithfully serving his church and community. His lasting impact will be felt for generations through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Bobby enjoyed attending sporting events and watching games with his family and friends. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Tennessee Titans, and the Tennessee Volunteers. He also cherished the time he spent attending NASCAR races with his family and his special friend, Kenneth Daniels.

Mr. Ray departed this life on April 20, 2026, at Adamsville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Adamsville, Tennessee, at the age of 86 years, 8 months, and 5 days.

He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Todd Ray and wife Stacie of Savannah, Tennessee; two daughters, Robin Ann Moore and husband Wayne of Selmer, Tennessee, and Ginger Nicole Hurley and husband James of Jackson, Tennessee; as well as siblings Olla Wier of Germantown, Tennessee, Lola Murray and husband John of Bethel Springs, Tennessee, and Jerry Ray and wife Margaret of Hermitage, Tennessee.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Andrew Moore and wife Shelby, Eric Moore and wife Monica, Kaylee Blakely and husband Brandon, Garner Ray, Branton Stephens, Amanda Newman, Brittney Stephens, and great-grandchildren: Lillian Blakely, Wade Blakely, Maddie Moore, Ripp Moore, Conner Plunk, Weston Plunk, Violet Moore and Callen Moore, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Janette, of almost 50 years, brother, Joe Manard Ray and his close companion, Brenda Law.

Funeral services will be held on April 23, 2026, at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Selmer, Tennessee, with Bro. Mike Holloway officiating. Burial will follow at Lake Hill Memorial Gardens in Bethel Springs, TN.

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