Harvey Ray

Harvey Ray was born in 1932 in Drew, Mississippi to Neal and Nettie Belle Ray. After graduating from high school, he attended Mississippi State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Industry and was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. Harvey served his country honorably as a Captain in the US Air Force. After his discharge from the military, Harvey attended the University of Mississippi School of Law, but remained a loyal Bulldog sports fan throughout his life, as his many friends can attest. After beginning his law practice in Cleveland, Mississippi, he later moved to Meridian, Mississippi. Harvey first practiced with Mr. Dan Self before teaming up with Judge George Warner to start Warner & Ray Attorneys at Law. Later, the practice became Warner, Ray & Cobb when his friend and colleague, Mr. Leonard Cobb, joined the firm. Harvey enjoyed his involvement in the community, serving as President of the Meridian Jaycees, selected as Jaycee Man of the Year, and MSU Bulldog Club. Mr. Ray was one of the key developers in Poplar Springs Estates and Briarwood Country Estates subdivisions.

Harvey was a faithful Christian man who tried to live his life according to God's word, instilling those values in his children. As a member of First Baptist Church, he served as Deacon and was a dedicated Sunday School teacher for 22 years.

Harvey's wife, children and grandchildren brought him great happiness. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; sons, Phil Nelson (Judy) of Madisonville, Louisiana, Mark Nelson of Austin, Texas, Blanton Ray of Horseshoe Bay, Texas, Emily Tillman (Jim) of Lafayette, Louisiana, Paige Mimms of Meridian, Mississippi, Craig Ray (Michelle) of Pflugerville, Texas, and Holly Whitehead (Blaine) of Gulf Shores, Alabama, as well as Beth Carver, whom Harvey loved like his own; grandchildren, Kellie Nelson, Tripp Tillman (Ivy), Jacob Tillman, Montana Mimms, Alex Ray and Grey Whitehead; and three furbabies that remained faithful companions until the very end.

The family requests that memorials be made to the National Ataxia Foundation at https://ataxia.org/donate/ in Harvey's honor.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Gentiva Home Health, Sta-Home Hospice, and especially Mrs. Barbara Jean Matthews, for their tender and loving care of Harvey during his extended illness.

A private service will be held to celebrate his life.