NASHVILLE - Ray Brantley, age 82, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 23, 2022. Born on the same acre of family farmland in which he passed in Nash County, NC on December 14, 1939, he was the son of the late Charles Brantley and Debbie Brantley. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Jean Brantley; his daughter, Sandy Edwards; and his brother, Dwight Brantley.

Ray proudly served in the North Carolina Army National Guard before joining his family working on the family farm which he had done for most of his life. Following his decision to retire from farm-life, he went to work for the City of Rocky Mount until his formal retirement. An extremely devoted and dedicated man both to his family and to his community through his work with the city, Ray was known for his love, kindness, and generosity by those who knew him well and loved him unconditionally. To everyone else, he was a man of few words yet still very much respected for his honesty and ethics. A loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and dear friend to many, Ray will be forever missed and never forgotten.

Ray is survived by his children, Sherry, Jennifer, Sharri, James (wife), and Amy; his 13 grandchildren, his four great-grandchildren and one grandson on the way; his siblings, Danny, Carol, Glenda, and Patricia; many nieces and nephews; and best friend and caretaker, Jesse Keasling.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Ray's life will be held on Friday, January 28, 2022 at 12:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Rev. Jimmy Carpenter officiating. A private burial will be held at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Visitation with the family will be from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Ray's memory to American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Court, Alexandria, VA 22312.