Michael Allen Ray,

Michael Allen Ray, age 41, of Hickory,  passed away unexpectedly on March 20, 2013, as a result of an automobile accident, near Blowing Rock. Born January 18, 1972, the son of Peter "Pete" Allen Ray and Rhonda Ray, of Stanley, NC. He was an employee of L & N Productions of Hickory, as an audio engineer. Michael is preceded in death by his grandparents - Ed and Margret Ray; Wade and Edith Rumfelt and uncle - Roger Rumfelt. Michael was an avid musician, playing the guitar, bass and drums, and was known as a bright soul. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his life partner and love of his life, Tara Yvonne Barlowe and daughter Elizabeth Ray, both of the home; Tara's parents - Myra Harding and Clayton Barlowe, of Hickory; brother - Jason Ray and sister Heather Ray, both of Stanley; his special nieces and nephews - Gavin, Avitt, and Brinn Barlowe, all of Taylorsville and Avery, Addison, Aiden, and Morgan Ray, all of Stanley; as well as a brother-in-law, Ryan Barlowe, who was just like a brother.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 23, 2013, from 4:00 pm -6:00 pm at Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service; 193 NC Hwy 16 N, in Taylorsville, NC and a Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, March 24, 2013 at 3:00 pm in the Chapel of the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elizabeth Ray Scholarship Fund; Po Box 174, Taylorsville, NC, 28681.