Penny Ray

Penny Diane Ray, age 61, passed away at home on Monday July 1, 2024 in Northport, AL after a long battle with renal disease. 

Penny was a cherished member of the Sanford family, Sister to Mary Patterson (Freddie), Jerry Sanford (Maggie), Jimmy Sanford and Betty Free as Survivors.

She was preceded in death by her parents, A.G “Punk” and Lucille Sanford; also sisters, Linda Phillips and Patricia Tolbert. 

In 1980 Penny married the love of her life Glenn Ray, marking the beginning of a lifetime filled with love and devotion. Glenn was her caregiver and never left her side until her last breath. 

Penny’s love extended to her two children, Ashley Stafford (Jeno) and Justin Ray (Kati), who remember her as a nurturing soul who also devoted her life to them and their upbringing. 

Her four grandchildren Aubrey Caroline, Stormi Nicole, Thomas Ray and Tucker Glenn will carry on her legacy of kindness and joy through their smiles just like their Granna did. 

Graveside services will be held Friday, July 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in the New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Berry, AL with Bro. Brad Hartsfield officiating and Magnolia Chapel North directing.

Pallbearers will be Andrew Smith, Kenny Smith, Steve Smith and Rodney Woodham.

Honorary pallbearers are friends and family of New Hope Baptist Church, Kenny and Denise Smith, Max and Elaine Stripling, Steve and Renee Smith, Rodney and Patty Woodham, Dr. Caroline Day, Dr. Fred Graham, Dr. Dirk Berry and their staff, Davita Dialysis of Fayette and the Employees of PCS., LLC.