Ray Brown Lentz

Ray was born on January 21, 1933 to the late William and Ora Lentz in Cabarrus County, NC. Together they worshipped God and expressed their love for Christ in how they treated others. He grew up playing bluegrass music with his father and brothers on their front porch and began learning his carpentry craft alongside his brother Charles when they were still kids.

Ray's natural inclination was to delight in learning. Upon his father's death, he left school in the 11th grade to help care for his family but remained a quick study throughout life. Drafted by the United States Army during the Korean War, Ray received an academic commendation for achieving the highest grade, 98.2, on the 68th Engineer Group C's course examination.

Ray delighted in his role as a husband and father and believed deeply in the dignity of every person. He loved to fix a problem, had a way with animals and was an excellent marksman. He was never happier than when reading his Bible, especially to his grandchildren. He was a theological thinker and a student of even the smallest of God's wonders. With the coaxing of his grandchildren, he came into his own as the family story teller, keeping them wrapped in stories about the country road mysteries and spooky places of his youth.

While Ray spent most of his career with his brother Charles building people their dream homes, he built his own home on Christian love, laughter and integrity.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Marvie Lentz; parents, William and Ora Lentz and his brother, Earl Lentz.

He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter and son-in-law, Raygina and Roger Beale; brother, Charles Lentz (Maxine); sister, Minnie Menus (Marvin); and 2 grandchildren, Grace and Asa Beale who lovingly made for him many a mud pie.

A memorial service will be held in his honor at Woodhaven Baptist Church on Sunday, March 1, 2020 at 2:00 PM. Family will receive friends and guests prior to the service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to Westwood Baptist Church, Cary or Woodhaven Baptist Church, Apex.

Condolences can be shared at apexfuneral.net