Harry Lee Ray
Harry Lee Ray, 83, of Roanoke, Virginia, was called to Heaven on the first day of autumn, Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
Harry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Margaret Leech Ray; his parents, Arnold and Ella May Ray; his siblings, Paul, Danny, and Lorraine Ray; and his granddaughter, Ashleigh Danielle Ray.
He leaves behind his daughters and sons-in-law, Laura and Kip Lancaster and Traci and Dan Marks; grandchildren, Courtney Poindexter (Joshua), Austin Carr, (Amanda Jackson), and Ryan Lancaster; great-grandchildren, Penelope, Brody, Amelia, and Winnie Poindexter, Harper Mortara, Aubree Overfelt, Ameri, and Anastin Carr; siblings, Loretta Combs, Arnold Ray (Patsy), Betty Miller, Linda Yates, (Jerry); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Harry was the proud owner of Shenandoah Industrial Rubber for 50 years, building not only a business but lasting friendships and a reputation for honesty, hard work, and integrity.
He was also a dedicated farmer who loved raising beef cattle and growing his prized tomatoes on his farm in Catawba. Throughout his life, Harry was an exceptional athlete. He played baseball and softball for an astonishing 68 years, pitching for dozens of teams. He also excelled at golf, bowling, basketball, and horseshoes. Wherever there was a ballfield, golf course, or game to be played, Harry was happiest when he was among friends.
He was a loyal Yankees fan who watched every game he could. One of his special memories was attending a Yankees home game at Yankee Stadium with his family in 2024.
But above all of his accomplishments and passions, Harry was a man of God who treasured his family. He loved the simple moments spent together playing Rook and Rummy, throwing horseshoes, riding bikes, traveling, or simply being in their company. Those ordinary moments became extraordinary memories because Harry was there.
Harry was a man of few words, but when he spoke, people listened. He led not by demanding attention, but by the example he set every day. At home, at work, on the ballfield, and in the community, his morals, ethics, generosity, and sportsmanship left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He was honest and giving to a fault. He never spoke in anger and was not one to say a harsh word about anyone. Harry was the kind of man who, when you met him, you simply could not help but like him.
He was a loving dad, brother, son, Paw Paw, uncle, and friend. He was deeply loved and admired by all who knew him.
There will never be another Harry Ray.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Bonsack United Methodist Church, 4493 Bonsack Road Northeast, Roanoke, Virginia 24012. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Tommy Smith of New Hope Christian Church officiating. Services will conclude with a 3:00 p.m. graveside service at Mountain View Cemetery in Vinton, Virginia.
Harry will be greatly missed, but the example he lived, the friendships he formed, and the love he gave his family will remain with those who knew him forever.
