Buford Gordon Ray, 83, husband of Betty Joyce Branom Ray for 59 years, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

Mr. Ray was born in Hinkle Creek, MS to the late Buford Gray Ray and Marguerite Monroe Ray.  He was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and the Couples Seniors Sunday School class.  Gordon served many years as the church administrator.  He was a veteran of the US Army and retired as a fleet manager with Wrangler Trucking.  Gordon was a huge fan of Alabama football and was known for his “Roll Tide” salute.  He loved watching old Westerns and serving as the trustee for old family antiques.  Two of his favorite pastimes was working on tractors with his grandson Braden and hand delivering Christian tracts to people he met.  Gordon loved his Christ and Savior and wanted everyone to know Jesus.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are a daughter, Cindi Bishop with husband Sammy; a brother, John Ray with wife Jenifer; three grandchildren, Katlyn Mahon, Braden Mahon with companion Katie, and Brandon Bishop with fiancé Bailey; and three great-grandchildren, Austin, Lylah and Willow.  He was predeceased by a brother, Jimmy “Pepper” Ray; and a sister, Nancy Carolyn Ray.

A celebration of Gordon’s life will begin at 11 o’clock Saturday at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Jim Spencer.  The family will receive friends following the service.  Burial will be 11 o’clock Wednesday at Graceland East Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 1279 South Frontage Road, Fountain Inn, SC  29644.