Norma Fay Ray, 105
1919-2024

Norma Fay Murdaugh Ray, 105 years old, of Monticello passed away Monday, October 27, 2024, at Belleview Estates of Monticello. Fay was born July 14, 1919, in Vilonia, Arkansas to George W. Murdaugh, Sr. and Ethel L. Ward Murdaugh. She was the wife of Elsie S. Ray whom she married in 1934 in Ashley County, AR. She was a devoted mother to Ronald S. "Butch" Ray.

Fay, Elzie and Butch were long time members of Wood Avenue Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in Monticello, where she served as a Sunday school teacher and youth leader. Fay was a gardener whose flower beds were a flurry of colorful iris, day lilies, and perennials of many varieties. She won numerous awards at the county fair for her floral designs. She was a professional seamstress, and shoe salesperson. Fay was very fond of Boston terriers, usually having a registered breeding pair.

Survivors include a sister, Mildred Ann Carter of near Seattle, WA. and a nephew Jimmy Carter. In addition to her husband and son, Fay was also preceded in death by her brothers, Edward Murdaugh, G.W. Murdaugh, Jr., Gaylord Murdaugh Sr., and Richard Murdaugh, Sr.; and sisters, Lottie M. Lough and Helen Maxine Thorpe.

Graveside services will be Friday, November 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in Oakland Cemetery in Monticello, AR.