Garland was born May 24, 1924, to Cyrus Leach Ray and Georgia Hinze Ray in Winston County. He was a faithful member of Hinze Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for 49 years. Garland enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and watching sports. He was also a Mason for more than 50 years. He worked in the Forestry industry, first for American Creosote and later, he was self-employed at Southern Timber Company. He answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Army during World War II.
Garland is survived by his daughter, Janice Greene and husband, Marion, of McCool. One of his greatest joys was being “PaPaw” to his granddaughter, Susan Byrd and husband, Pat; and his great-grandchildren, Michael and Laurie Byrd. He is also survived by numerous loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Z. Shumaker; his parents; four brothers, William “Cleo” Ray, Wallace Ray, Hinze Ray, and B. J. Ray; and his sister, Jewelene Shumaker.
Serving as pallbearers are Joey Ray, Marcus Ray, Scott Ray, Jeff Shumaker, Mike Shumaker, and Ricky Steed. Memorial donations can be made in Garland’s honor to Hinze Baptist Church, 1645 Hinze-Rural Hill Road, McCool, MS 39108.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North
Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
