Ray Steven McCurry, better known as Cooter to those that knew him best, of Shelby, NC found peace on Friday, January 29, 2021 at the age of 78.

Mr. McCurry was born on December 8th, 1942 as the youngest child of Robert Palmer McCurry and his beloved wife Maude Rippy McCurry. Being raised in a rural farming family, Mr. McCurry found pleasure in the simpler things that life had to offer to include his family, friends, meaningful conversation, telling jokes and stories of years past, as well as peace and quite when he was afforded it.

Ray was a long-time mill worker in Shelby who was regarded as hard working and reliable by his fellow co-workers and management. When he was not working, Ray enjoyed watching sports, listening to country music, going fishing with his family, partaking in the occasional late-night snack, and of course doing a little dancing. Despite not having any children of his own, Mr. McCurry was a devout family man who played a vital role in the life of every member of his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Maude McCurry, two brothers, Jack and Bill McCurry, as well as two sisters, Frances Bailes and Dorothy Irvin; nephew/long time roommate Jack Leonard McCurry, Jr. also known as Pete.

Ray is survived by his brother Jim McCurry of Shelby, NC and by his many nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews along with their spouses that he cared for deeply.

Cooter was a great man with a huge heart that brought joy and laughter into so many hearts and he will truly be missed.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 6th, 2021 at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 1517 Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Rd. Ellenboro, NC, 28040 with receiving friends from 1-2pm and Graveside Service to follow immediately after.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Cleveland County Hospice House, 951 Wendover Heights Drive Shelby, NC 28150.

Arrangements entrusted to Robert Morgan Funeral and Cremation Service of Boiling Springs, NC.

Online condolences available.