Alethea C Ray, 54 of Dayton,TN passed away October 22nd, 2026 at her home.

Alethea dedicated more than 30 years of her life to nursing, a profession that reflected her caring heart and selfless spirit. Throughout her career, she touched countless lives through her dedication, gentle nature, and unwavering commitment to helping others. To Alethea, nursing was more than a career - it was a calling.

Outside of her work, Alethea found joy and peace in the beauty of nature.

She especially enjoyed hiking, where she could take in the fresh air, explore the outdoors, and appreciate the simple beauty of the world around her.

She is preceded in death by her mother Susan Ray, stepmother: Marty Cooper and Uncle Ronnie Ray

She is survived her father William "Butter" Ray of Spring City; aunts: Jody Henderson of Sale Creek and Barbra Brady of Dayton; uncles; Tom Fine of Soddy Daisy and Eugene Ray of Spring City, a host of cousins. She is also survived by her best friend of 40 years Billie Worthington and her beloved dog Emmett.

No services will be held at this time.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Alethea or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.