Jeffery "Jeff" Alan Ray, age 66, of Manchester, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at TriStar Centennial Hospital in Nashville. A lifelong resident of Manchester, Jeff was born on April 9, 1959, t

Jeffery "Jeff" Alan Ray, age 66, of Manchester, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at TriStar Centennial Hospital in Nashville. A lifelong resident of Manchester, Jeff was born on April 9, 1959, the son of the late Ulysses S. Ray, Jr. and Nellena Norton Ray.Jeff was a man of quiet determination and a legendary work ethic. Driven by the simple goal of purchasing his first car, he bypassed college to enter the workforce immediately after school. He began his career at Batesville in Manchester as a tow motor driver, a role he held for six months before becoming a press operator in the gasket plant. He remained a dedicated fixture at the local plant for the next 39 years, retiring with an impressive 40 years of service to the company.Outside of the factory, Jeff was an accomplished and meticulous woodworker. His hands were rarely still, and his talent lives on in the many clocks, furniture pieces, and rocking horses he crafted for the grandchildren of his dear friends. Among his most treasured creations were his oak jewelry boxes, each carefully finished with a signature cedar rose on the top.An avid fan of the Tennessee Vols, Jeff also found great joy in the outdoors—whether he was tending to his yard, plowing his gardens, or trading for his next vehicle, a hobby that culminated in his most recent red Buick Envision. He was a devoted companion to his beloved Boston Terrier, Jo Jo, who remained his faithful friend until the end.In addition to his parents, Jeff was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ulysses and Edith Ray, and Aubrey Leland and Sarah Hillard Norton. He is survived by his brother, Mike Ray, his loyal canine friend, Jo Jo, and a host of friends and former colleagues.The family will receive friends on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM at Manchester Funeral Home. Following the visitation, the funeral procession will depart the funeral home at 11:30 AM for graveside services and interment at Hillsboro Presbyterian Church Cemetery.Manchester Funeral Home is honored to serve the Ray family.