Bobby Gerald Ray

Bobby Gerald Ray, 85, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, at Hospice of Davidson County. Born on December 17, 1940, Bobby was the son of the late Thomas “Leo” and Lucille Ray.

Bobby proudly served his nation in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Specialist E-5. During his military service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for exceptionally meritorious achievement while serving with the 101st Airborne Division.

Bobby remained extremely patriotic throughout his life and carried a deep love and respect for his country. Following his military service, Bobby built a successful career as a technician before becoming co-owner and operator of Air Balance Corporation in Greensboro, NC. Known for his incredible work ethic and sharp sense of humor, Bobby was gifted with the ability to work on and fix almost anything. He especially enjoyed restoring old cars and tractors and often used his God-given talents to help neighbors, friends, and members of his community.

Bobby also faithfully served his community as Fire Commissioner for Fire District 28 in Guilford County. He raised his family in Gibsonville, NC, where they attended and served Friedens Lutheran Church.

In his later years, some of Bobby’s greatest joys were sitting on his front porch smoking his pipe with his wife, Lib, and beloved dog, Buddy. He enjoyed watching others work and “supervising” from his scooter when he could no longer physically join in himself — something those whoknew him well will fondly remember.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Craven Ray of Denton, NC; sons, Gary Ray (Tyra) of Burlington, NC, and Brandon Ray (Toni) of Leland, NC; grandchildren, Jacob Ray (Leslee) of Stanley, NC, Dylan Crusan (Jacey) of Berrien Springs, MI, Samantha Ray of Pinehurst, NC, and Peyton Ray of Leland, NC. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Arlawen Crusan,

Miles Ray, Eliza Ray, and Haven Crusan. He is also survived by a multitude of extended family members and dear friends whose lives he touched throughout the years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas “Leo” and Lucille Ray, his wife of 43 years, Clara Ray, and many cherished family members and loved ones who went before him.

A visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM until 2:30PM at Lowe Funeral Home and Crematory in Burlington, NC. A graveside ceremony will follow at 3:00PM at Friedens Lutheran Church Cemetery in Gibsonville, NC. Military honors will be rendered by the US Army honor guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Davidson County or the Wounded Warrior Project.

His legacy of hard work, service, humor, and love for family will live on in all who knew him.