Ray Vernon Waters, of Starr, SC passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Rainey Hospice House. He was 92 years old.

Ray was born June 11, 1933, in Lowndesville, SC. Ray graduated from Lowndesville High School in 1951. In 1952, Ray married Norma Jean McCoy. After marriage they resided in Iva for approximately 40 years before purchasing farm land and moving to Starr in 1993 where he could ride a tractor, harvest hay and tend his fish pond.

A proud member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Ray served on numerous committees and sang in the choir. He helped found The Believers Gospel Trio, sharing his love for Christian music throughout the community. He was a gifted athlete, playing basketball as a young adult, textile league baseball and slow pitch softball with the Iva Pop Tops. Ray was incredibly involved with the forming of the Iva Chapter of the Jaycees, which hosted softball tournaments attracting teams from all over the southeast.

Ray worked at Owens Corning Fiberglas and Piedmont Wood Company before forming a timber dealership with his dear friend, Pat Hester. Ray became co-owner of Magnolia Timber Company, where his passion for the outdoors and commitment to honest labor allowed him the opportunity to pass on his love for land and forestry to his grandson.

Ray was a gentle and faithful man who cherished his time with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, supporting grandchildren in sports and activities, spending time in his hammock and pontooning on Lake Secession. His kind spirit and strong Christian faith defined his life.

Ray is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Norma Jean McCoy Waters, daughter, Teresa Marlene Stewart; grandchildren, Jason Stewart (Angela) and Teresa Kinert (Chris); great grandchildren Callie Christine Kinert and Ada Lee Waters Stewart.

In addition to his mother, Allie Christine Waters, he is predeceased by grandparents, Johnnie and Margaret Waters, and son-in-law, Michael Stewart.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 15, 2025,from 11:00 am until 12 noon at The McDougald Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow visitation at 12 noon with Rev. Rick Somerville officiating.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of The Garden House of Anderson, who provided loving care to Ray and Norma over the past 7 years.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Rainey Hospice House, 1835 Rogers Rd., Anderson, SC 29621, whose support during Ray's final days is deeply appreciated.