SHELBY: Ray Douglas Sturgill, 79, died Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, at his home. A native of Russell County, Va., he was the son of the late Loyd and Agnes Osborne Sturgill. Ray served in the Airforce and Tennessee National Guard. He retired from Alstom Power, where he worked as a purchasing agent. He was a faithful member of Clearview Baptist Church since 1964, where he served as music director for 50 years, deacon, and church treasurer.

PRECEDED: In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Paralee Sturgill; brothers, Bobby and Jerry Sturgill; and granddaughter, Christina Evans.

SURVIVED: He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Evans; son, Ray E. Sturgill and wife Tina, all of Shelby; sisters, Maryann Sturgill, Judy Morris and husband Eddie, and Gaye Phillippi and husband Marc, all of Bristol, Tenn.; brother, Gary Sturgill and wife Emily of Nashville, Tenn.; grandchildren, Daniel Sturgill and wife Emily, Elizabeth Ervin and husband Joe, and Ashley Thomas and husband Andy; and great-grandchildren, JJ Ervin, Gabby Ervin and Karlee Sturgill.

VISITATION: The family will receive friends 12:30-2pm, Tuesday, at Clearview Baptist Church

FUNERAL SERVICES: Funeral services will be held 2pm, Tuesday, at Clearview Baptist Church, Grover, officiated by Rev. Barry Miles, Rev. Joe Ervin, and Rev. Billy Boone

BURIAL: Burial will follow in Cleveland Memorial Park with military honors

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Clearview Baptist Church, PO Box 67, Earl, NC 28038

FUNERAL HOME: Arrangements are being handled by Clay-Barnette Funeral Home of Shelby

ONLINE CONDOLENCES: www.claybarnette.com