James Lee Ray, 72, of Dawsonville passed away Monday June 29, 2015 at his residence following an extended illness. Born October 21, 1942 in Lumpkin County to the late Jim Ray and Mattie Faye Ray Beck, he had lived in Dawson County for the past 23 years. Mr. Ray retired from Tyson’s after 16 years of service. He was also preceded in death by a son, Mark Ray, three sisters and five brothers. Surviving are his wife of 50 years, Brindia “Meme” Ray, Dawsonville; children, Anita and Tim Prichard, James Timothy Ray, Lucas and Celina Ray, all of Dawsonville; nine grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sister in law, Frances Bruce Ray, Dawsonville; sisters, Sandra Satterfield, Dawsonville, Barbara Jean Nichols, Dawsonville; brothers, Gerald Ray, Mt. Airy, Eugene Lemley, Baldwin; and numerous extended family members. Funeral services will be held Thursday July 2, 2015 at 2 o’clock at Bearden Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. J. R. Fields will officiate. Interment will follow in the Philippi Baptist Church Cemetery in Lumpkin County. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 4 until 9 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to assist with final expenses. Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com. Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.