Thomas Plato Ray

Thomas Plato Ray, 87, of Old Fort, passed away Sunday evening, September 27, 2026 at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine.

A native of Yancey County, he was born March 5, 1939 to the late Ralph Ray and Ernie Westall Ray. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Betty and Peggy.

Tommy lived a life shaped by steady work, deep appreciation for the outdoors, and enjoyment of the simple pleasures that brought him happiness through the years. A lifelong dairy farmer, he was born into that way of life and carried it forward with dedication. Outside of his work, Tommy was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in fishing and hiking. He also was known as a fantastic golfer, and he enjoyed traveling, especially to Yellowstone National Park.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 65 years, Charlene Marsh Ray; three children, Malita Jackson (Mark), Lisa Wylie (Perry), and Steve Ray (Rebecca); six grandchildren, Eric Jackson (Whitney), Ethan Jackson (Dallas), Morgan Griffith (James), Ashley Wylie, Lacy Ray, and Jacob Ray; six great-grandchildren, Rivers Stillman, Carter Ann, Knox, Rhett, Greyson, and Reece Jackson; and three siblings, Ronald, Judy, and Gail.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at Beam Funeral Service. A memorial service, officiated by Rev. Harold Webb, will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Home Care of the Blue Ridge, 236 Hospital Drive, Spruce Pine, NC 28777.