A true Raleigh native, Mike was born here to James David Ray, Jr., and Mae Swanner Ray. After graduating from Broughton High School in 1963, he attended Wake Forest University and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree. While at Wake Forest, he was treasurer of the student body, and was an active member and treasurer of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
Mike served in the United States Army at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and then returned home and married his love, Gail. They welcomed their daughter, Ashley, a few years later. As a newlywed, he began working at Raleigh Office Supply, the family business started by his father and his uncle, Charles Ray. His career at Raleigh Office Supply spanned twenty-six years and included many years as President. Mike had the rare ability to combine business intelligence with kind, inclusive leadership. Raleigh Office Supply had a supportive, lighthearted work environment, and the relationships made there continue to this day. Mike also enjoyed being active in many civic organizations and serving on the boards of various local businesses.
After retiring from Raleigh Office Supply, Mike pursued his passion for the game of golf. He was a charter member of both North Ridge Country Club and Old Chatham Golf Club where he was happy to often “shoot his age.” His favorite golf achievements were his “aces;” the hole in one score that most golfers never see. Mike was blessed to have many wonderful friends from all parts of his life, and he valued those close friendships. He enjoyed spending time in Emerald Isle, walking his beloved dogs, listening to beach music, and dancing the great Carolina shag. But most of all he loved his girls.
Mike was predeceased by his parents and brother, James David Ray, lll. Surviving are his wife, Gail, daughter, Ashley, both of Raleigh; sisters Nancy McBride (Elliot) of Raleigh, and Amanda Ray of Bloomington, Indiana; and many beloved nieces, a nephew, and cousins.
A celebration of life reception for family and friends will be held at North Ridge Country Club on August 7, from 3:00-5:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the SPCA of Wake County, Inc. (200 Petfinder Lane, Raleigh, NC 27603, or spcawake.org), the Triangle Land Conservancy (514 S. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27701, or triangleland.org), St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or stjude.org), or to the charity of one's choosing.
Services provided by Brown-Wynne, St. Mary's St.
