Grady Randall Ray

Mr. Grady Randall Ray, 73, of Swainsboro passed away Thursday, July 4, 2024, at home surrounded by his family following an extended illness. He was born January 26, 1951 in Douglas, to Leon Avery Ray and Virginia Mae Reece Ray. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Susan Johnson Brinson; brother-in-law, John David Bailes; great-nephew, Jake Hagan.

Randall graduated from Swainsboro High in 1969. He earned an associate’s degree in wildlife management from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.  He moved to Trinity, Texas and began a career with Southland Paper Company. He worked in various capacities, mainly wildlife conservation.

In 1987, Randall returned home to Swainsboro and began work with the Emanuel County Soil and Conservation Service.  He retired from the Swainsboro Parks and Recreation Service in 2021.

Randall enjoyed anything wildlife related, NASCAR and local racing.  He loved to swing dance Texas style, and played golf whenever he could with his golfing buddies. Everyone enjoyed his sense of humor and quick wit. He would laugh in most conversations with everyone.

He is survived by brother, Don Ray (Linda) of Swainsboro; sisters, Ann Ray Kea (Gene) of Swainsboro, Sandra Ray Bailes of Adrian; special family members, Tyler Brinson and Ellie Escobar; nephew, Mike Ray (Shawna); nieces, Katie Kea Hagan (Bo), Chrissy Ray Sherman (David), April Kea; great-nieces, Lauren Ray, Haley Hagan, Lilly Wheeler, Sara Sherman, Harper Sherman; great-nephews, Tyler Hagan, Drake Mason; cousins, Diane Dimsdale, Wayne Gaskins, Juran Ray, Buddy Ray, Steve Ray, John Ray, Lydia Land, Lynda Land, Herbert Land; and many friends.  He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Swainsboro.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 A.M., Monday, July 8, 2024, in the Chapel of Chapman Funeral Home with Elder Mike Gray officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour before the service.

Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Dellwood

Pallbearers are Mike Ray, Tyler Hagan, Bo Hagan, David Sherman, Riley Griner, and Billy Mason.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Tony Mangieri, John Tapley, Wayne Braswell, Ronnie Womack, Jim Dekle, Billy Carmichael, Bruce McRae

Condolences may be expressed at www.chapmanfhofswainsboro.com.

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Grady Randall Ray, 73, of Swainsboro.