Mr. Billy Gene Ray

Billy Gene Ray was born on August 18, 1950, in Palestine, Arkansas, to the late George Henry Ray and Theola Kimble Ray. One of six children, he accepted Christ at an early age at Shiloh C.M.E. Church in Palestine. Raised on the family farm, Mr. Ray learned the value of diligence working alongside his father. He graduated from Palestine High School in 1970, employed by Warren Faupel even while in school. After graduation, he worked several years at Halstead Industries, Inc., before pursuing his passion for entrepreneurship. He enrolled in Little Rock Barber College and graduated in 1979. Mr. Ray went on to own and operate one of the area’s oldest and most respected Black-owned businesses, becoming the longest-serving barber in St. Francis County. A licensed master barber and hair stylist for forty-seven years, he was known for his precision, professionalism, and care for the community he served. His public service included years as an auxiliary sheriff’s deputy and recognized contributions as a quorum court member and constable; he received honorary commendation from the St. Francis County Judge for his dedication. He also served as Justice of the Peace for District 3 from 2007 through 2020. Always fair and compassionate, he was seldom seen without a smile. He participated in job fairs and outreach with inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution, offering encouragement and practical guidance. Beyond the barbershop, Mr. Ray enjoyed acting—appearing in the 2017 film The Grace of Jake—as well as maintaining real estate, cutting his grass, and spending time with family. Charitable by nature, he quietly helped many as the Lord directed his steps. He was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal friend and brother, and a servant-leader in his community. He was united in marriage to Gloria Ann Vanzant, and together they shared more than thirty years of love. Billy Gene Ray “fought a good fight” and peacefully ascended to his eternal rest on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital–Memphis. His legacy continues in his children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Mary Lee Smith, Standford Ray, and Frank Ray; and one stepson, Thurman Vanzant. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Gloria Ann Vanzant Ray of Madison, Arkansas; his children: Darlene Slaughter of St. Louis, Missouri; Eddie Clinton, Sr., of Texas; Felica (Felix) Doby of Forrest City, Arkansas; Tamala (Robert, Sr.) Baldwin-Bell of Algonquin, Illinois; Christopher (Shawanda) Jones of Forrest City, Arkansas; Kevin (Jenime) Black of Grand Prairie, Texas; O’Neal (Samantha) Winfrey of Forrest City, Arkansas; April Prater of Forrest City, Arkansas; Felica Johnson of Jonesboro, Arkansas; Roshandra Ray of Forrest City, Arkansas; Natasha Kidd (Nathanael) Pendleton of Forrest City, Arkansas; Henrietta (Chris) Cross of Wynne, Arkansas; Patrick Jones of Forrest City, Arkansas; Armar Vanzant and Torrence McMurren, both of Saginaw, Michigan; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one brother, Willard “Bill” (Elizabeth) Ray of Palestine, Arkansas; one sister, Dimple Mae Brown of Forrest City, Arkansas; one sister-in-law, Oretha Ray; one dear friend, Grant Long, Sr.; and a large circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Faithful, industrious, and kind, Mr. Ray’s life spoke for him. Those who knew him will remember his steady hands, generous heart, and unwavering commitment to family and community. May his memory be a blessing.

Mr. Billy Gene Ray

August 18, 1950 - September 10, 2025