David Allen Ray

David Allen Ray, formerly of Farmington, entered eternal rest in Amory, Mississippi, on July 28, 2026, at the age of 82.

He was born on December 8, 1943, in Belleview, Missouri, to the late James Ward and Alice (Dixon) Ray. David graduated from Farmington High School in 1962 and proudly served his country in the Missouri National Guard for six years. He began his career with REA Railways in St. Louis before working in the mines at Pilot Knob until the operation closed. He later worked at Turner Chevrolet before beginning his career with Doe Run Company, where he remained until his retirement.

In 1971, David married the love of his life, Linda Pierce. Together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Ray; his children, Brian Lee Ray (Steve) and Terri Lyn Ray (Merri Sanderson); his granddaughters, Kristina Sawyer (Sam), Kellena Richardson, and Serena Topping; his great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Samantha Sawyer; Kagen, Mason, Madyson, and Rilee Fear; Dain Stuckey; and Ruby Topping. He also leaves behind his honorary grandchildren, Nash and Fraya Holloway and Paxton and Eva Wright; his sisters, Berta Barton-Drye, Nancy Hall, Janet Odle, and Joy Hall (Tom); as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his siblings, Willard Ray, Frances Hardy, Iris Queen, and Eugene Ray; his parents-in-law, Romie and Zelma (Graves) Pierce; his sisters-in-law, Maude (Gaston) Ray, Wanda (Black) Ray, and Sandy (Pierce) Payne; and his brothers-in-law, Finis Hardy, Dan Drye, Garry Odle, and Jim Pierce.

David was a proud member of the Mineral Area Elks. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan who loved spending time outdoors, whether tending to his yard or simply relaxing outside. Above all, he cherished his family and friends. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38105 or https://www.stjude.org. 

View David's video tribute and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.