Koni Ray

Koni Sue Ray passed away January 13, 2026, in her beloved mountain home in Murphy, North Carolina, after a courageous battle with cancer. She faced her illness with the same grace and strength she brought to everything in life, surrounded by the mountains she loved and the people who loved her.

Born in Fresno, California, to Harry Crayton, a proud veteran, and his true love, Ottis Crayton, a devoted mother, Koni spent many years in Orlando, Florida, before finding her heart's home in the North Carolina mountains. She retired from Sears after years of dedicated service, but her real work was in the beauty she created and the light she brought to every life she touched.

She carried her father's deep respect and heart for those who served, and that honor and dedication to others ran through everything she did.

She had a gift for making things grow-her garden was legendary, and friends often marveled at her green thumb. But she grew more than plants; she cultivated joy, drew out the best in people, and made everyone around her feel seen and valued. Whether sharing a cup of strong black coffee, homemade biscuits with bacon, or a good book, she knew how to savor life's simple pleasures and share them generously.

Her faith in Jesus was the foundation of everything. "Surely the Presence" was more than her favorite hymn-it was how she lived, making sure everyone felt His presence through her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering love.

We know she is beyond excited to be reunited in Heaven with her sister and best friend, Gini Kay Gibbs. What a joyful reunion that must be.

She is survived by her devoted partner, David Barnard; her nephew Carey Gibbs, his wife Jennifer, and their son Ari; her niece Amy Baucom, her husband Timothy, and their sons Brett and Dustin; and her faithful canine companions, Jake and Daisy.

She brought beauty to everything she touched and knew how to bring out the very best in everyone she met. That gift remains with all who knew her.