Billy Ray Johnson,

Billy Ray Johnson, age 78, of the Ellendale community, passed away at his home on Friday, October 7th.   He was born in Alexander County to the late Charlie Butler and Vela Paige Johnson.  As a member of Antioch Baptist Church, he previously served as a church Deacon and a Sunday School teacher.  Mr. Johnson was one of the original founding members of the Brushy Mountain Beagle Club where he loved to train dogs.   He had been a supervisor in the Furniture Industry prior to retirement.  Mr. Johnson is survived by his wife, Agnes Johnson of the home.  One daughter; Merylin Davis and husband, Kenneth, and one son; Lonnie Ray Johnson and wife Kathy.  Two granddaughters;   Brandy Rowe and husband John Paul; and Lerin Berwick and husband Aaron.  One Grandson, Trevor Davis.  He is also survived by six great-grandchildren:  Michael Hill, Kennedy and Calvin Rowe, Kaylor, Eowyn, and Finn Berwick.  One Brother Maurice Johnson, One Sister Jane Lackey, and a special caretaker Ruth Royal, as well as a number of nephews and nieces.  Besides his parents he is preceded in death by one brother; Paul Johnson.  Visitation for Mr. Johnson will be held on Sunday, October 9 at Alexander Funeral Service from 6:30 – 8pm.  The Funeral Service will be on Monday, October 10 at Antioch Baptist Church at 4:00 pm. with Rev. Mark Morris, and Rev. Dennis Spivey officiating.  The body will Lie-in-State for 30 minutes prior to the service.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Antioch Baptist Church Harry’s Hand fund @ 580 Antioch Church Rd, Taylorsville, 28681.  Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral & Cremation Service.