Ronnie Dale Ray, 78, of Gallatin, TN, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20th at home. Ronnie was born May 11th, 1948, to the late Emma Louise Lamberth Ray and Floyd Lee Ray.
Along with his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Sue Caudill Ray, brother-in-law, William “Bill” Dye Caudill, Jr., and nephews William Patton Caudill and Charles Tyler Caudill.
Ronnie is survived by his sister, Emma Jean (Jackie) Ray Wright; brothers, Danny Ray and Terry (Susie) Ray; and sister-in-law, Charlotte (Bill) Suttle Caudill; along with several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.
Ronnie was a 1966 graduate of Portland High School and a proud veteran who served his country in Vietnam. During his service in the Army, he was awarded two Purple Hearts for valor and injuries sustained in combat. Following his honorable discharge, Ronnie began a long career with the Portland Post Office.
He was well known throughout the Portland community for his kindness, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor. After retirement, Ronnie could often be found operating heavy equipment, attending equipment auctions, or simply spending time with family and friends.
Ronnie and Sue were happily married for 54 years. They enjoyed attending Vanderbilt and Portland athletic events, always supporting the teams and activities they loved. Ronnie was also a faithful member of Hartsville Pike Church of Christ and was always willing and happy to serve wherever he was needed. Ronnie will be remembered for his service, his humor, his kindness, and his devotion to his family and community.
Visitation will be at Wilkinson and Wiseman Funeral Home on Friday, July 24th from 11:00am to 2:00pm, with a military graveside service to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery. Alex Meadows will be officiating the service.
Pallbearers will be Ronnie Monday, friend; Kory Cline, family member; and great-nephews: Alex Meadows, Max Meadows, Cooper Meadows, Will Caudill.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Bobby Hester, friend; Clyde Graves, friend; and Mike Broyles, friend.
For more obituaries visit our obituaries page.
This obituary was published by Wilkinson and Wiseman Funeral Home.
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