John Howard Ray known as Sonny Ray age 76 of Galax, Virginia passed away Monday October 12, 2021 in the Waddell Nursing and Rehab Center.

Sonny was born in Galax, Virginia on August 7, 1945 to David Parks and Idella Joines Ray. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter Holly Michelle Bolen, sister Rose Vaught and brother Clay Ray.

He is survived by his wife Martha Farmer Ray of Galax, Virginia; two daughters and sons-in-law Connie Ray and Warren Altizer of Galax, Virginia; Rhonda Ray and Mike Bolen of Hillsville, Virginia; sister Mae Ray Barker of Tennessee; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

A memorial graveside service will be held for the family at a later date with the inurnment to follow in the Chestnut Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to either the American Kidney Foundation or the Humane Society.