Ray Thompson

Ray Thompson, age 73, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2026.

Ray was a man of creativity and expression, known for his beautiful floral designs and his ability to make proms and special events feel extraordinary. He had an eye for detail and a talent for bringing joy and beauty into the lives of others. Ray taught and worked in administration in the Dooly County Schools and at Central Georgia Technical College.

Beyond his creativity, Ray had a deep love for music. He shared his gift as a talented singer, once leading music, directing choirs, and participating in the gospel group Five for One. He also led youth choirs, taking them to sing across the state of Georgia and even performing in Daytona Beach. Through song, he expressed both his faith and his heart. After he moved to Macon, he was active in the music ministry and choir at Ingleside Baptist Church.

Ray also had a special love for Christmas, a season he brought to life in a way only he could. In Unadilla, he created extraordinary Christmas scenes for others to drive through and enjoy, sharing both his talents and the joy of the season with his community.

Ray was loved by his family. He also formed lasting friendships over the years and will be remembered for the light he brought into moments of celebration and worship. In retirement, Ray worked as a greeter at the Walmart on Gray Highway and ate breakfast and lunch at Burger King on Riverside Drive downtown. He had favorite restaurants around Macon for supper. He had many friends at these places, and he appreciated their friendship and help.

He held a special place in his mother's heart and was truly the apple of her eye.

He was preceded in death by his parents, J.T. and Jeanette Thompson of Unadilla; his maternal grandparents, Sam and Rena Layfield; and his paternal grandparents, Jessie and Maggie Thompson.

Ray is survived by his daughters, Ansley (Cal) Scarborough and Karli Ray; his brother, David Thompson; and his sister, Jan (Wyndell) Hamrick. He is also survived by his nephew, Johnathan Hamrick, and his niece, Jana (Ken) Smith, along with four beautiful and beloved grandchildren.

We can all take comfort in knowing that God's grace is greater than all things, and Ray’s physical ailments and limitations of later life have all fallen away

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the congregation of Ingleside Baptist Church for the love, support, and care shown to Ray, especially in his final days, in particular to, Vada Burns, Genevieve Rhyne, Johnny Pilkenton, and Randy Pang who lived with Ray, helping him live independently for many years. Also thanks goes to Robert Swanagan who drove Ray and provided additional care for him.

An informal memorial service will be held at Ingleside Baptist Church, Macon, on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 7:15 pm after choir practice.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ingleside Baptist Church Music Ministry, 834 Wimbish Rd, Macon, GA 31210 or to a charity of your choice in Ray's memory.

Please visit www.simplycremationmiddlegeorgia.com to express condolences.

Simply Cremation of Middle Georgia has charge of the arrangements