Joyce D. Ray

Joyce Davis Ray, 91, of Palestine, Texas, went home to be with the Lord in the early morning hours of September 11, 2024, surrounded by family. She touched the lives of all those around her with her warmth, sweet spirit, sassy charm, witty sense of humor, and baked goods galore. Well known for her baking skills and sweet tooth, she could often be found enjoying a delightful homemade treat. She was always willing to share a bite and a smile with anyone who stopped by to visit. She delighted in the simple pleasures of life, especially her grandchildren, Tori and Zach, who were her pride and joy.

Joyce was born on February 5, 1933 in Palestine, Texas to parents Charles W. Davis and Mary Holmes Davis. She grew up in Anderson County and graduated from Elkhart High School. She married her high school sweetheart, Arnold W. Ray, on August 11, 1950. As long-standing members of Walston Springs Baptist church, they faithfully and actively served the Lord together until his untimely death in 2002. She loved being a part of “The 5 Disciples,” a group including Tommy and Louise Pennington, Viginia Walker, and Joyce and Arnold Ray. They provided music for many local funerals, nursing homes, and “Third Sunday” Singings at rotating Missionary Baptist churches in the area.

Her love for family and friends was unparalleled; she cherished every moment with them. She loved to travel and shared many treasured memories of fun-filled adventures to places such as Branson, Missouri, floating the Comal and Frio rivers in Texas, and trips through the Rocky and Appalachian Mountains, just to name a few. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of joyous affection and unconditional love. She made the world a brighter place for everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Mrs. Ray worked for the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS) in Palestine, Texas for more than 30 years. After retirement, she served as part of the Sunshine Guild at Palestine Regional Hospital for many years. She also enjoyed walking in the Palestine Mall and eating pie with a group of friends, almost daily. The group grew quite large over the years as their laughter and lively conversations could be heard throughout the mall, attracting more and more people to the group.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Mary Davis, her loving and patient husband Arnold Ray, sister Virginia Walker, brother-in-law Buddy Walker, and sister-in-law Carol Ann Davis. She is survived by her daughter Lesa Martin; grandchildren Tori Martin, Zach Martin; wife Jadelyn, beloved great-granddaughter Ainsleigh; brothers Wayne Davis, wife Barbara; Dub Davis, wife Wanda; and Larry Davis, wife Linda. Joyce will also be remembered by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as extended family members and friends.

The family of Mrs. Ray would like to extend special thanks for the amazing care given by the staff at Fairview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Fairfield, Texas. While only there for a short period of time, they provided a safe, nurturing home away from home, and made her feel like a part of their family. Everyone called her “Mimi,” the name given to her by her grandchildren, and she could often be found drinking Dr. Pepper and enjoying Blue Bell Ice Cream cups, along with other sweet treats, near the nursing station as she greeted and visited with staff members.

Visitation for Joyce Ray will be held at Rhone Funeral Home in Palestine, Texas on Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Service will take place in the Rhone Funeral Home Chapel on Sunday September 15, 2024 at 2:30 in the afternoon. Interment will be held at Chambers Day Cemetery in Palestine, Texas following the service.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Tori Martin, Zach Martin, Aaron Walker, Josh Gentry, Cameron Strange, Jason Walker, Joey Willis, and Lane Davis. Kyle Davis will serve as honorary pallbearer.

Funeral services for Joyce D. Ray are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. 

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