Ann Elizabeth Pritchard Ray

ann elizabeth ray

March 20, 1939 ~ April 13, 2018


Resided in: Asheville, North Carolina

Surrounded by love and close family, Ann Ray, of Asheville, died peacefully on Friday, April 13, 2018. Ann is survived by her beloved sister and brother-in-law, Jeanne and Chesley Singleton, as well as her children, Susan Benfield Riddle, and Edward William Ray along with his wife, Jennifer. She also leaves behind grandchildren, Elizabeth Cart, Katherine Marie, Jackson Weaver, Cassidy Grace, and Lauren Taylor; as well as a niece, Lynn Marie, a nephew, David Chesley, and their families. She was preceded in death by her dear parents, Marie and William Weaver Pritchard. A lifelong resident of Asheville, Ann was a devoted member of Grace Baptist Church where, for decades, she dedicated much of her time and energy to the choir and music program. Ann was also a loving and passionate Registered Nurse for over 30 years at Memorial Mission Hospital. Her graciousness and love were well-known to all who were lucky enough to share time with her in this life. She found her greatest joy in her close, loving family. Her family would like to give special thanks to all of the doctors, nurses, and other staff who provided kind and compassionate care over the last several months with particular gratitude to Drs. Ahearn, Austin, and Thrash. A celebration of Ann's life will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 718 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806. Visitors will be received immediately following in the fellowship hall. The family will continue to its private gravesite in Marshall, NC, for burial. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the music department of Grace Baptist Church, where Ann herself found and shared joy. Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.

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  1. To answer family I worked with Ann for many years at mission. You are in my thoughts and prayers dawn calhoun

  2. Dear Family, We are heart-broken that Ann has passed. She has always been such a light, always smiling, always positive. Very grateful that she was able to be at church recently and was even able to sing with the choir she loves so much. Truly a blessing and a joy to have been her friend.

  3. Susan, We are so saddened to read of the passing of your mother, Ann. She was a friend while we were at Lee Edwards. Always a Lady, she will be missed.

  4. Susan, Eddie and family,
    We were saddened to hear of the passing of Ann. She was a joy to be around, always smiling. It was good to see her at church recently and singing in the choir. Our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

    Joe & Wanda Elkins

  5. To the family of Ann Ray:
    I am very saddened to read of the passing of Ann. I worked with Ann at the hospital and she spoke daily of her 2 children and how very proud she was of them. Ann was a pleasure to work with and is remembered fondly. God bless and be with your families during your time of loss.

  6. Susan, i was saddened to hear of your Mothers passing. She was always a real sweet lady. Sending prayers for your family during this difficult time.

  7. Susan, Eddie, and family
    I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. She always had a smile, kind word, and hug every time I saw her, literally my entire life. Her interest and encouragement while I was in nursing school will always hold a special place in my heart. She has been there for every milestone in my life including the birth of my first baby. I will miss seeing her and getting that hug very much. Thank you for sharing her. Love and prayers.

  8. To the family, Eddie and Susan, the love and friendship I had with your mother was with much joy. She was with laughter and strength but always there for you. Any thing that was ask of her ( cleaning a house) she was there. Through the tough road we shared was the laughable one. We cried then looked at each other and just continued until the next time. I will surely miss her. Love you’ll much. We will see her again

  9. So very sad in the loss of your beautiful mom, sister, grandmother, to this world. She loved all of you so much and so proud of your accomplishments. She was looking forward to more time in life. She was a inspiration to me seeing her walking every day since I was unable to walk much I will miss Ann as a wonderful neighbor, friend andtravel companion. We enjoyed trips to Biltmor House manny times.Prayers for your comfort!

  10. Went with Ann on several trips in the 90’s.. Worked with her many years . What a good nurse and loveable person. She will be missed.


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