Ray Lee Barrows

Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines will be handling Ray's North Carolina Services. Ray's Clark County, Missouri Services will be held in July, 2026.

Ray Lee Barrows, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, veteran, and Mason, passed away on May 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 29, 1936, to Levi and Marie Barrows, Ray lived a life marked by service, dedication, faithfulness, and love for his family and community.

On June 2, 1956, he married the love of his life, Sandra Russell. Together they built a strong and loving family, welcoming their daughters, Robin in May 1957 and Raylene in April 1958. Their marriage was a lasting example of commitment and devotion. Sandra preceded him in death in 2013, and it brings comfort to the family to know she was there to greet him once again.

Ray proudly served his country in the United States Navy, retiring as a Lieutenant in October 1977 after a distinguished military career. During his years of service, he also pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, in 1972. He later earned a Master of Science degree from Central Missouri State University, where he also taught electronic engineering. Ray continued his passion for education and mentoring students while teaching Biomedical Engineering at Texas State Technical College until his retirement in 1990.

Beyond his military and academic accomplishments, Ray was deeply committed to Freemasonry. He joined St. Francisville Masonic Lodge #588 on May 2, 1958, beginning a lifelong journey of brotherhood and service. In September 2008, he was honored with his 50-Year Master Mason Jewel, and in November 2023, he was presented with his Honors and Masonic Flag. He remained a faithful and devoted member of the Lodge for 68 years.

Ray leaves behind a loving legacy through his family. He is survived by his daughters, Robin and Raylene, his sister, Mert, his brother, Guy; his four granddaughters: Heather (Danny), Heidi (Chris), Sarah, and Rebekah (JD); his great-grandchildren: Evan, Joey, Savannah, Gregory, Leona, Leah, DJ, Lilly, Sandra, Austin, and Maddy; and his eleven great-great-grandchildren: Colby, Anna, Haley, Clara, Henry, Jerry, Jayson, Grayson, Ruby, Willow, and Barrey. Numerous nieces also survive him, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Ray will be remembered for his wisdom, quiet strength, dedication to service, love of learning, unwavering devotion to his family and friends, and especially for his unforgettable bear hugs that made everyone feel loved and welcomed. His life touched many, and his legacy will continue through the generations that follow him.

In place of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association.

The family is currently making arrangements to celebrate Ray’s amazing life in both North Carolina and Missouri. Details will be shared with family and friends once finalized.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.