Carol Ann (McDuff) Ray

Mrs. Carol Ann Ray passed away on May 26, 2026, at the age of 83. She was born on February 4, 1943, in Troy, New York, and lived a life marked by love, devotion, and quiet strength. Carol will be remembered as a kind and caring woman whose presence brought comfort and warmth to those around her.

Carol was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She shared 37 devoted years of marriage with her husband, James Ray, and together they built a life centered on family, loyalty, and enduring love. She was a proud and loving mother to Harold Ryan, Carol Ann Ryan, Barbara Brown, Tommy Pettiway, Sr., and Jason Pettiway, Sr., and she treasured the many blessings of her large family. She was also deeply loved by her brother, Raymond McDuff, Sr., and she will be remembered with affection by a host of nieces and nephews and numerous grandchildren, sisters-in-law, Carolyn Jackson, Willesther Evans, Shirley Canty, Lola Holloway and her husband Charles, Edith Ray and her husband Ronald, Josephine Jones, Clydell Jones, and Evelyn Fitch.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Ruth McDuff, her daughter, Bonita Smith, and her brothers, Eugene McDuff, Jr. and James McDuff. Though she experienced the sorrow of loss during her lifetime, she remained a steady source of love and encouragement for her family. Her strength and resilience were evident in the way she cared for others and in the grace with which she carried herself through life.

Carol enjoyed the simple pleasures that made her happiest. She loved to shop, especially at Roses Discount Store, where she found joy in browsing and selecting special items for her family and friends. She also loved to crochet, and her handiwork reflected the patience and care that were such a part of her character. Carol enjoyed collecting porcelain dolls, which brought her delight and added beauty to her home. She also held a special place in her heart for her cats, Precious and Brutis, who were cherished companions and will be deeply missed. Carol cherished the love and fellowship of her church family at Ministry in Action. She was devoted to her faith and God.

Those who knew Carol will remember her laughter, her gentle spirit, and the way she made others feel welcome and cared for. Carol Ann Ray will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A wake will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at J.C Harwell & Son Funeral Home located at 2157 East Street SE Covington, GA 30014. A Funeral Service will be held at Riverview Funeral Home located at 218 2nd Ave. Troy, NY 12180. The service date and time will be announced soon. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that if you find it in your heart, please mail donations to Ministry in Action located at 100 Eleanor Drive Covington, GA 30016

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