James Ray

James Mark Ray, 49, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024.

James was born Nov. 6, 1974, in Poplar Bluff to Floyd Alfred Ray and Juanita Faye (Morgan) Ray. He married Sarah Beth Lacy July 8, 2000 in Poplar Bluff.

James lived in Poplar Bluff his entire life. James enjoyed playing video games, DJing and singing at the Cottage Inn for karaoke, he was a wizard with computers, playing darts, and playing pool. James has many years of education in computer science, he was working on his Doctoral Dissertation. He worked at Republic Services for over a decade as a driver, supervisor, dispatcher, and finally as IT Field Engineer.

He loved to spend time with his family and friends.

James is survived by his wife, Sarah Beth Ray; two sons, James Alfred Ray and Floyd Dalton (Christina) Ray, both of Poplar Bluff; two daughters, Elizabeth Faye Ray of Poplar Bluff and Esther Lorene (Ray) Williams of Springfield; one brother, Guy (Sarah) Ray of Williamsville; two grandchildren, Karson Williams and Ruby F. Williams, both of Springfield; many nieces and nephews; Aunt Noma and Uncle Karol Hathaway; and two cousins, Kim Crossman and Paula Beir. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd Alfred and Juanita Ray; and one sister, Joy Lynn Greenlee. A host of family and friends also survive.

Visitation will be held 5 – 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024 at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Chapel. Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 8, 2024 at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Chapel with Pastor Jim Schremp officiating. Interment will follow at the Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

The family request no flowers; but please make a donation in memory of James Ray to a charity of your choosing. James loved dogs especially his Butters.

Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis Facebook page.