A private family service for Aileen Pardue Ray, 96, of Clarkesville, is being held.
Mrs. Ray passed away Tuesday June 2, 2020.
Born Dec. 18, 1923, in Habersham County, she was the first-born child of the late George Hughes Pardue and Herclean Gibson Pardue. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Ray; her son, Pat Ray; her brother, John Pardue; and her sister, Brenda Pardue Porter.
Mrs. Ray, affectionately known as "Meme," delighted in her role as wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She enjoyed celebrating birthdays and holidays with her adored family, and she always looked forward to visiting with friends both old and new. Her remarkable memory and her lively sense of humor were two of her most endearing qualities. As a member of the Greatest Generation she welcomed any opportunity to share her vivid memories of attending a one room schoolhouse, going to the Loudsville Methodist camp meetings in the summer, attending Pardue family reunions and being baptized at age of 13 in the Chattahoochee River. She had a keen interest in the history of Habersham County and it's people. As a long-time member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Mrs. Ray enjoyed teaching Sunday school in the children's department for many years. She continued impacting the children in her community when she opened and operated ABC Kindergarten for several years.
"Meme" was much beloved by her family and friends and will be remembered for her generous spirit, her positive attitude and the strength and courage she displayed throughout her lifetime.
Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Ann and Joey Arencibia of Hiawassee; sons and daughters-in-law, Ken and Angie Ray of Jefferson, and Mike and Becky Ray of Cornelia; grandchildren, Bart, Alexa, Gabby and Grant Arencibia, Andy Ray, Vince Ray (Shelley), Whitney Ray Cox (Leland), and Brooks Ray (Katie); great-grandchildren, V.J. and Landry Ray, Preston, Parker and Hudson Cox, Kaleigh, Bowman and Lillie Ray and Patton Ray who is scheduled to arrive in the fall, sisters, Geraldine (Jeri) Holcomb and Ernestine (Tootsie) McEntire, both of Clarkesville; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church, 624 Hwy 197 N, Clarkesville, Ga 30523 or to the charity of one's choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel, Demorest.