Judith Ann Cloninger Ray

Judith Ann Cloninger Ray, a beloved wife, mother, nana, friend and member of Restoring Hope Foursquare Church, passed away on July 6, 2024, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center Gastonia. She was born on April 24, 1944, in Dallas North Carolina to the late Maurice and Carrie Deese Cloninger.

Judy dedicated over 45 years of her life to working as a licensed cosmetologist where she touched many lives with her vibrant personality and made everyone feel special. Her passion for her career extended beyond just styling hair; it was an opportunity for her to connect with people and spread love and joy. She is the last Cloninger on Cloninger Street in Dallas. She was known for her back scratches and arm tickles. She loved to cook for her family and cater for the crowds. 

An active member of the Restoring Hope Foursquare Church, Judy's faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was unwavering. She will always be cherished for her love of family and friends, but most importantly for her strong faith that guided her every day. Judy's proudest accomplishments revolved around her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to those closest to her heart.

In this time of mourning, Judy is survived by her husband of 63 years, Robert Ray; daughter, Dana Ray Bryson; son, Deryk Ray; brother-in-law, Sonny Ray; her wonderful grandchildren: Zachary Bryson (Whitney), Cameron Bryson (Kelsey), Michael Bryson (Kammie), Brooklyn, Karrigan, Lincoln, Eden, Kaydence, Ezra, Harper Jett, Ellis Ray, Eastlyn, Benjamin and Willow.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents Maurice and Carrie Deese Cloninger, son-in-law Mike Bryson and sister Linda Cloninger. She touched the lives of many with her kindness and generosity and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Services to celebrate Judy's life will be held at Restoring Hope Foursquare Church in Dallas on Thursday, July 11th. A visitation will take place from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3:00 PM. with Pastor Cameron Bryson officiating, her grandson she was so proud to have as her Pastor.

Memorials may be made to Restoring Hope Foursquare Church, P.O. Box 905, Dallas, NC 28034

Honorary Pallbearers will be Bill Burkett, Jimmy Burkett, Tony Ray, Michael Bryson, Scott Leviner and Matthew Wooten Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com