Kenneth Edward Ray

Kenneth Edward Ray, 78, of Fayetteville, NC, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025. Born on January 30, 1947, in Sellers, SC, Kenneth lived a life defined by integrity, service, and deep devotion to his family and country.

Ken proudly served in the United States Army for 27 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. A highly decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War, he served in the infantry and was a qualified Airborne paratrooper and Pathfinder. His distinguished service earned him numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge with a combat jump star, the Pathfinder Badge, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with five campaign stars, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation. He served with honor around the world, including extended duty at Fort Bragg, and remained a dedicated leader within the 82nd Airborne Association.

Ken was a devoted husband to his wife of 17 years, Brenda Britt Ray, and a loving father to three sons: Thomas (Christy) Ray of Huntersville, NC; Terence (Ginger)  Ray of Billings, MT; and Timothy (Brenna) Ray of Summerville, SC. He was a proud grandfather to Wesley, Emily, Madison, Stephanie, and Alex.

He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel E. Ray (2009), and his mother, Ruth Hunt Nobles (1970). He is survived by his siblings: Karen (Curtis) Fields, Jacob Thomas Nobles Jr. “Tommy”, and Patty (Brian)  Marter.

Ken will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady leadership, and the unwavering support he gave to those around him. He was deeply proud of his family, his faith, and his service to the nation.

A family visitation and viewing will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC.  This will be followed by a memorial service at 12:30 p.m. Interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors in Spring Lake, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fisher House Foundation (www.fisherhouse.org), which provides free lodging for military and veteran families near VA hospitals while their loved ones receive care. This mission reflects Ken’s lifelong commitment to service members and their families.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13

Funeral arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com

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