Debra Dawkins Ray, a long time resident of Hendersonville NC, died peacefully and gracefully in her home surrounded by family and friends after a lengthy illness on May 8, 2017. Born July 27, 1953 in Chester, SC, she graduated from Chester High School and attended the First Baptist Church where she loved singing in the choir. Debra enjoyed learning of homeopathic medicine; she was also a Certified Reike Master. Additionally, as an ordained Minister, she officiated numerous weddings and Celebrations of Life. Debra was a member of The American Legion Post 77 Ladies Auxiliary, The Elks Lodge and The Ladies of The Southern Patriots.

Debra is preceded in death by her father, Elbert Dawkins; her sister, Cheryl Clack and her daughter, Shawn Bushovisky.

She is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Michael Ray of Hendersonville, her mother, Mildred Dawkins and sister Melody Moseley (Rick) of Chester, SC. She is also survived by her daughter, Misti McCarley and a step- daughter Destiny Metcalf; grandchildren Courtney Sexton, Lilli Hutcherson, Amaya McCarley, Joseph McCarley, Abigaile Stevenson and April Raspberry of Hendersonville, NC. She has three great grandchildren; Isaiah Sexton, Kendall Hougan and Kaylee Hougan. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters –in –law and many other loved ones and friends. She was adored by all who were blessed to know her.

Debra was cremated at Asheville Mortuary in Asheville, NC.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Chester State Park in Chester, SC, Saturday, June 3 at 12pm. In lieu of flowers please send donations to The Medical Loan Closet of Hendersonville, NC or The Council on Aging in Hendersonville, NC.

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