Wednesday, February 18, 2026 7:51 am

James Franklin Ray, Sr., age 60 of Gaffney, SC died Saturday, February 7, 2026. Jim was born April 24, 1965, in Rutherford County and was the son of Brenda Crowe Ray Scott and the late James Eddie Ray.

Jim was known to his family and friends as A.J. and to his Gaffney friends and co-workers, he was known as Hollywood.

Jim was baptized in the First Baptist Church of Forest City where he remains a member. He was a 1983 graduate of East Rutherford High School.

Survivors include his mother, Brenda Crowe Scott and stepfather, Bernard Scott of Forest City, his son, James Ray, Jr. and wife Caroline of Hendersonville, his daughter, Skye Ray and partner Zachary of Asheville, his sisters, Teresa Ray McDaniel and husband Jeff of Cliffside, and Pamela Ray Hewitt and husband Robbie of Forest City, as well as his nephew, Lucas Hewitt, his niece, Maddie Hewitt and his aunts, uncles and cousins.

The funeral was held February 15 in The Padgett and King Chapel with Rev. Dr. Garin Hill officiating.

Memorials may be made to Heart of The Foothills. 380 US Hwy. 221, Rutherfordton, NC 28139 or First Baptist Church Mission Team, 211 W. Main St., Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.