December 2, 2021, 76, Smithfield –

William Rayford Hartley (W.R.), 76, of Smithfield, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at his home. W.R. was born in Johnston County on September 30, 1945 to the late Raymond Perry Hartley and Leacy Oliver Hartley.

W.R. is survived by his wife, Edith Elaine Boykin Hartley; his children, Travis Hartley, Shannon Daniels and husband Dan of Goldsboro, Heather Goodman and husband Jeff of Marina, Arizona, Kyle Hartley and wife Jennifer of Smithfield; nine grandchildren including Ava Goodman, Anna Hartley, Luke Hartley; two great grandchildren; brother, Vaden Hartley and wife Marie; sisters, Francis McLamb and husband Delma, Shirley Stewart, Connie Eason, and several other family and friends.

W.R was a loving husband, daddy, Pa, brother, and friend. He was an avid animal lover and enjoyed looking after them on his farm, but most importantly he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He will be dearly missed but precious memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM, Sunday, December 5, 2021 at Casey Funeral Home and Cremations Chapel in Princeton with Bishop Eugene Hartley officiating. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM at Casey Funeral Home and Cremations. A private burial will be held in the Hartley Family Cemetery.

Although flowers are welcome, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Johnston Community Church, P.O. Box 36, Selma, N.C. 27576 in memory of W.R. Hartley.

Casey Funeral Home and Cremations is honored to serve the Hartley family.