Joseph Ray Lackey

VALE-Joseph Ray Lackey, 84, of Vale, passed away Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Carolina Caring, after a period of declining health. Born July 24, 1934 in Cleveland County, he was the son of the late Raymond and Mittie Sain Lackey. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister Evelyn Townsend; a brother Harold Lackey and a niece Patsy Watts. Ray was a long time member of Ebenezer United Methodist Church where he served on various committees, sang in the choir, was a member of the Men's Club and coached the women's and mixed league softball teams. He was also a USSSA umpire for baseball and softball. He was a founding member of Cooksville Volunteer Fire Department where he served for 32 years, 7of which he was the Chief. He enjoyed rabbit hunting and fishing and was an avid UNC Tarheels and Washington Redskins fan. He had a love for life and enjoyed each day he was given. His family enjoyed many good memories with him including Trips to Maine, Pennslyvania, Florida, Myrtle Beach and numerous trips to Talladega Speedway. He will be truly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Shelba Hood Lackey of the home; a daughter Amy McCormick and husband Anthony of Hickory; a son Timothy Lackey of Seneca, SC; granddaughters Heather Cline of Hildebran and Casey Lackey of Central, SC; great granddaughter Layla Williams of Central, SC.; great grandson Holden Starnes of Hildebran, and a number of nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends Wednesday, December 26, 2018 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hickory Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held Thursday, December 27, 2018 at 2:00 pm at Ebenezer United Methodist Church with Tony Sayer officiating. He will lie in state 30 mins prior to service. Burial will follow in church cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658, or Cooksville Fire Department, 6942 Old Shelby Road, Vale, NC 28168, or Ebenezer United Methodist Church, 8840 Cooksville Road, Vale, NC 28168. The family would like to thank, P.A.C.E., Carolina Caring and Bayada Home Health Care, and a special thanks to Kaylina and Payton, for all the care they gave. Arrangements are with Hickory Funeral Home.