Perry Ray Johnson

Perry Ray Johnson, aged 80, of Waynesboro, Tennessee, peacefully passed away on March 4, 2026. Born on April 23, 1945, in Clendenin, West Virginia, he was the beloved son of the late Toni A. and Oleta Gray Johnson.

Ray served his country honorably in the United States Air Force for four years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. On February 8, 1992, he married his loving wife, Sharon Rae Smith, and together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and shared passions.

He dedicated many years to his career, first installing phone equipment for Western Electric and later serving as an instructor with Lucent Technology. Ray was a devoted member of Zion Baptist Church in Waynesboro and the Singing River Strummers Group. A true jack of all trades with an insatiable curiosity, he became well-versed in many fields and took great joy in sharing his knowledge with others. A gifted musician, he played the violin, viola, banjo, and mountain dulcimer. He and Sharon loved traveling in their RV to music festivals, where they shared their love of music and camaraderie.

An adventurous spirit, Ray held a private pilot license and delighted in flying his own plane, often whisking Sharon away on trips. He embraced creativity through quilting, woodworking, and flying model airplanes. He also enjoyed archery, crafting his own bows, and exploring nature on hunting trips.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Rae Johnson of Waynesboro, TN; son, Brian Ray Johnson (Amy) of OH; daughter, Jamie Johnson; other children, Jimmy Graves of OR, Robby Graves (Gypsy) of WA, Melody Beebe (Richard) of WA, and Jody Bales (Kevin) of OR; sister, Joyce Linger (Neal) of WV; eight grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his brother, John Johnson, and his twin brother, Roy Johnson.