Jessie Lewis Ray "Rawhide"

Mr. Jessie Lewis Ray "Rawhide", age 67, of Broadway, NC, entered eternal rest on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at his residence. 

The Obituary

Jessie Lewis Ray aka “Rawhide” was born March 3, 1958, to Rutha Blue Ray and the late Rev. JD Ray of Broadway NC. He departed this life June 19, 2025, in his home surrounded by his family.

He attended Shawtown School and later Boone Trail High School. He served two years in the US Army where he received his high school diploma.

In his formative years, he attended Paradise AME Zion Church until his adulthood. He was a member of the Willing Travelers Choir under the leadership of his uncle Harrison Ray. Jessie was a fun, caring, and loving person. He would give his last to anyone in need.

Jessie was preceded in death by his one and only beloved daughter, Shauna Ray Johnson less than one month prior to his passing; also his father, and grandparents.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories, his devoted mother, Rutha Blue Ray of Broadway NC; one brother, Pastor Archie Ray (Twana) of Broadway NC; three sisters, Zonie Ray Horne (Johnny) and Shelby Ray McNeill (James) of Sanford NC, Millie Ray Harris (Tim) of Broadway NC; two grandsons, Darian Johnson, and Camden Johnson; one beautiful granddaughter, Averie Johnson; one son-in-law, Ronald Johnson all of South Carolina; his loving mother-in-law, JoAnn Lyons; best friend, Clyde McIver of Sanford NC; one close uncle, Pastor Harrison Ray of Broadway NC; five aunts, Cornelius Ray of Lillington NC, Lula Blue of Sanford NC, Georgia Blue Carter of Augusta Georgia, Geraldine Blue, and Lelia Blue of Sanford NC; and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

"We do not own copyrights to the background music."

Thank you for helping us protect the families and communities we serve.

Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Sanford, NC