Ray Fearrington Hartley Jr.

Ray Fearrington Hartley passed away peacefully at home on June 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Ray was born on June 20, 1939, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Ray Fearrington Hartley Sr. and Alma Hutchens Hartley.

Following high school, Ray began his career as an illustrator with Western Electric, where he developed the drafting and artistic skills that would serve him throughout his professional life. He proudly served in the North Carolina Air National Guard Reserves. In 1967, Ray moved to Spartanburg, South Carolina, to work for Lockwood Greene as an electrical designer. He continued a distinguished career in engineering and design, later working for The Harwood Beebe Company and retiring from B.P. Barber & Associates in 2005.

Ray was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 60 years, Martha Johnson Hartley. He was the proud father of twin daughters, Deana Hartley Douglas (Eric) and Donna Hartley Pixler, and a cherished PawPaw to six grandchildren: Ruby Douglas, Iris Pixler, Nancy Douglas, Wynter Pixler, Frank Douglas, and Owen Pixler.

A man of many interests and talents, Ray's passions included playing and repairing banjos, operating his ham radio, playing bridge, and spending time on the golf course. His love of bridge led him to become a Life Master through the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL). He was also a member of the Free Masons of South Carolina and served as Past Master of Spartan Lodge No. 70, where he remained an active Mason for more than 50 years.

Ray's family will remember him as a constant jokester whose quick wit and playful spirit brought laughter to those around him. He was also remarkably handy and capable, never shying away from a project. With his own hands, he built the family's carport and fireplace and even constructed a balance beam and uneven bars so his daughters could practice gymnastics at home. During the holidays, he proudly displayed a six-foot illuminated star that he built himself and mounted atop his ham radio tower, a familiar and festive sight for family, friends, and neighbors alike. His creativity, craftsmanship, and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Frank Richard Hartley; and his sister, Peggy Hartley Day (James).

In addition to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, Ray is survived by his sister-in-law, Judy Farmer Hartley; many nieces and nephews; and extended family members.

Ray will be remembered for his love of family, his quiet strength, his sense of humor, and the example he set through a life of hard work, generosity, and devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the countless memories he created with them.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love, prayers, and support during this time