Ruth Ray, 89, of Ocean Isle Beach, passed away Sunday July 17, 2022. She was born September 27, 1932 in Murphysboro Illinois to Margaret and John Sabine. She and the love of her life, Howard, were married in 1956 and enjoyed 66 extra-ordinary years together. They had 5 wonderful children Colleen (Mike) Acre of Richfield Springs NY; Jonathan Ray of Salt Lake City Utah, Andrea Ray of Richfield Springs, NY; Lisa Ray of Fairport, NY and Gordon Ray of Ballston Spa, NY, 9 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Margaret and John Sabine and sister Lois Weihe. Ruth graduated from The University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in personnel management and received her degree in Education from Southern Illinois University. She and Howard moved to Albuquerque where she began her teaching career as a 4th grade teacher.

Ruth and Howard moved to New York in 1961 where they became very involved in their new community. She was active in the New Hartford United Methodist Church as a member of the Finance Committee, as President of the Nursery School, she also played in the bell choir and was member of the United Methodist Woman’s group. She and Howard enthusiastically participated in the Utica JayCees and JayneCees. She did this while raising 5 children and attending the many activities their children participated in. Ruth also became an avid golfer and hosted many bridge nights.

When Howard retired, they relocated to North Carolina and quickly became immersed in the newly-formed Ocean Ridge Plantation community. She and Howard were founding members of the Ocean Ridge Singers and she accompanied them for many years on the piano. They also started a winter bowling league at Ocean Ridge. Ruth continued to play golf and even scored a hole in one on Panther’s Run hole #6 when she was 77. She continued to enjoy playing bridge with friends for many years.

Ruth’s passion and strong spirit will be missed by all who knew her. There will be a celebration of life service at the Shallotte Brunswick Funeral Chapel on Thursday July 21, 2022 at 2:30pm. All are welcome to attend. Anyone who wishes to offer a remembrance of her life is welcomed to share at the service. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the American Heart Association or the local Brunswick County food pantry.