Rufus Ray Jr., 70, formerly of Wheelwright, passed away Sunday, October 25, 2009, at his home in Bonifay, Florida, following a brief illness.

He was born August 27, 1939, the son of the late Rufus and Mandy McCoy Ray. He was a retired steel worker, and a U.S. Army veteran.

Rufus is survived by his wife, Kathy, of Bonifay, Florida; two sons: Rufus Eugene Ray and Greg Ray, both of Houstonville; five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren; a stepson, Bill Knight; stepdaughters: Stacy Miller and Jennifer Yancey, both of Bonifay, Florida; and nine stepgrandchildren.

He is also survived by three brothers: Aubrey (Helen) Ray of Jefferson, Ohio, Russell (Peggy) Ray of Highland Heights, and Ricky (Debbie) Ray of Melvin; three sisters: Mary Ordell (Charles) Johnson of Williamson, Dreama (Thomas) Burga of Beach Park, Ill., and Bonita (James) Caudill of Marion, Ohio; three sisters-in-law: Lillie Ray, Connie Ray, and Glenda Ray; and numerous nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers: Raymond Ray, Billy Ray, Arnold Ray, Johnny Ray, and Roger Ray.

He will be lovingly missed by all.