Chester Lavaughn Ray, 71, of Billingsley, passed away Jan. 8 at his residence.

He was born on Nov. 22, 1943, in Alabama, the son of the late William Ernest Ray and the late Rosa Lee Patterson Ray.

He was a steward with an offshore oil field.

Surviving are his daughter, Melody R. Gallet of Billingsley; granddaughter, Devan J. Gallet of Billingsley; grandson, Damian L. Gallet of Billingsley; great grandson, Colton B. Edwards of Billingsley; six brothers, Royce Ray of Jemison, Bobby Ray of Randolph, Wayne Ray of Jemison, Michael Ray of Jemison, Rodger Ray of Bessemer, Richard Ray of Columbiana,; two sisters, Chestine Macon of Jemison and Sharon Pledger of Clanton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Ernest and Rosa Lee Ray; brothers and sisters, Athlone Ray, Merle Dean Todd, Hubert Ray, Oneal Ray and Danny Ray.

Friends will be received from 2-3 p.m.,Jan. 11. at Martin Chapel.

Services will be held Jan. 11 at 3 p.m. at Martin Chapel with the Rev. Hollis Todd officiating.

Martin Funeral Home directing.

You may leave online condolences for the family on our website at www.martinfuneralhomeinc.com.