Vallerie Ray

Vallerie Ray, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on November 3, 2025, in New Albany, surrounded by the love of her family. Visitation will be 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2025, at Ray Funeral Home in Cleveland, MS. Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Greenlawn Cemetery in Greenville, MS.

Val was born on February 19, 1951, in Greenville, MS, to Alliston & Odie Lester. Val was a graduate of Riverside High School in Avon, Mississippi, and furthered her education at Mississippi Delta Community College. She married her high school sweetheart, Tom Ray, on September 11, 1971.

Val ventured into the business world as the owner of HomeSouth Mortgage Company, and later purchased Flowers-N-Things, where her entrepreneurial spirit showed through. Her dedication to her work mirrored her dedication to her family, a testament to her spirit. Known for her candid honesty, Val could be tough and straightforward, never hesitating to share her thoughts. Yet, her compassion was equally notable; she was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off her back, always willing to extend a helping hand to others.

Her home was a gathering place filled with laughter and warmth, as Val took great pride in cooking for her family and hosting them in her home. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, attending their many extracurricular activities, and celebrating their achievements. Her love for them was boundless, and they were a vibrant part of her life.

Val was also a member of Boyle Baptist Church, finding joy and solace in her faith. She loved taking long weekends to the coast, embracing the serenity of the sea and the joy of nature.

Val leaves behind her loving husband of over fifty-four years, Tom Ray; her son Al Ray (Rachel); her daughter Kim Wilson; and her cherished grandchildren, Ashlyn & Pierce Ray, Jake & Laney Whitt, and Foster, Harrison, & Marshall Wilson. She is also survived by her sister, Mona Skeen (Larry); brother-in-law, Perry Hutchinson; sister-in-law, Ann Lester; and many nieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alliston & Odie Lester; her maternal grandparents, Jimmy & Sarah Copeland; her paternal grandparents, Hugh and Grace Lester; her sister, Janie Hutchinson; her brother, Richard "Duck" Lester; and her niece Allison Lester.

Val Ray will be remembered fondly for her strength, her fierce love for her family, and her unwavering commitment to being there for others. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.