William Ray White, 82, of Greenwood, widower of Christine Bishop White, passed away Sunday, February 25, 2024 at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born in Rutherford, NC., he was a son of the late James Major White and Mary Jane Myers White. Ray found joy in the simple pleasures of life - rooting passionately for the South Carolina Gamecocks, spending tranquil hours fishing, and tending to his beloved garden. An exceptional arborist, cutting trees was not only his profession but his true calling, allowing him to showcase his talent and expertise in the field of arboriculture. He was employed by Davey Tree Company for 30 years.

Beyond his work, Ray was a dedicated member of his community, serving as a committed deacon and prayer warrior at South Greenwood Assembly of God. His deep faith led him to actively participate in church activities, including leading the men's fellowship, singing in the choir, and engaging in spirited games of dominos. An avid cook, Ray delighted in preparing delicious meals for the men's breakfast at his church, where he forged lasting friendships and strengthened his bond with his fellow churchgoers.

Ray's love for music shone through in his enjoyment of singing gospel songs, and his vibrancy illuminated the bowling league, where he shared laughter and camaraderie with his teammates. Each year, he eagerly anticipated the Koone family reunion, a tradition that brought him immense joy and allowed him to reconnect with loved ones and relish in the warmth of family ties. He also enjoyed attending family events at the Congregational Holiness Church in Lincolnton, GA.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Tonia White; son, Craig White; sister, Elizabeth White Thompson; brothers, Hugh White, Joel White, and Eugene White; grandchildren, William Ray Johnson (Anna), Meagan Urban (David), Taylor Johnson, Tyler Wise (Jessica), Carl Wise, and Alexandria White; beloved dog, Babe; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and South Greenwood Assembly of God family.

In addition to his wife, Christine, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Sherry Wise; a sister, Katherine Sorrow; a brother, Lawrence White; and a stepdaughter, Belinda Johnson.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at South Greenwood Assembly of God with Pastor Carroll Harrison and Pastor Dan Peele officiating. Burial will follow at Oakbrook Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Will Johnson, David Urban, Leroy Harrison, Jr., Mike Valdez, Michael Hastings, Mark Young, and Ray Pulley.

Honorary escort will be members of the South Greenwood Sunday school class.

The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday at Harley Funeral Home and Crematory.

Memorials may be made to South Greenwood Assembly of God, Mission's Department, 280 Galilee Road, Greenwood, SC 29646.