Fred Hackney

Ray Hackney, 73, of Sapona Country Club, passed from this Earth on Sunday, April 5th, at Lexington Memorial Hospital surrounded by family and friends.

He was born May 14, 1952, in Talladega, AL, to the late Fred Ray Hackney, Sr. and Ruth Phillips, the last generation of a family defined by the quiet strength of the Appalachian region of Alabama. A devoted husband, father, taste-tester of baked goods, and Duke basketball fan, Ray's imprint upon this world is best witnessed in the raucous humor of his children, the fair and solid work ethic that made him a respected manager at PPG, the humility and kindness with which he approached all people, and the deep and abiding love of his wife, Janie.

As a graduate of both Auburn University (War Eagle!) and Duke (Beat Carolina!) there was nothing Ray loved more than cheering on his schools and sharing the sport of basketball with his children. Summer days were marked by perpetual pick up games in the driveway and his booming laughter. All were welcome to play and none were turned away.

In 2005, when he and Janie met, he discovered a new love: travel. He and Janie trekked trails from the Grand Canyon to Jamaica. From OBX to Key West. Even during his own adventures with Janie, Ray’s greatest joy was bonding with his grandchildren. Whether cheering from the sidelines at sports games and concerts, or leading the charge in spirited squirt gun and water balloon fights, 'Papa Ray' was a constant, playful presence in their lives.

Remaining to carry on his legacy of kindness and good works, are his wife, Janie; his children: Claire Carr (Tyler), Phillip Hackney (Lindsay), Andrew Hackney, Brian Kuebler (Karen); Bradley Kuebler (Meghan), and six grandchildren Dylan (16), Alexis (12), Grady (16), Lola (11), Wynton (14), Oliver (10); and many friends from his PPG and church communities.

The service to honor Ray’s life will be held at 2:00pm, April 19th, at Clemmons United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends after the service in the commons area from 3pm until 4pm. Per their wishes, cremation has taken place and a private scattering will be held at a later date.

Flowers are welcome, however in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pastor's Pantry at https://www.pastorspantry.org/in Ray's honor.