May 5, 2022, 92, Goldsboro –
Martha Manning Winslow Ray Joyner, age 92, died at her home on Thursday, May 5, 2022 in Goldsboro. She was the daughter of the late Martha Adams “Maw” Winslow, a teacher and J.W. “Nunk” Winslow, Jr., owner of Goldsboro Book Store.
Martha attended Goldsboro High School and Duke University, later becoming an Iron Duke and huge sports fan. She loved reading, travel, tennis, the beach, and watching birds from her porch. Martha was a non-judgmental listening mentor to many people. Her most important job was nurturing her family and friends. Martha also worked as a Director of Christian Education at Saint Paul United Methodist Church and for WAGES Community Action Agency as coordinator of RSVP, Senior Companions, and Foster Grandparent programs. During the turbulent times of the 1960’s, she sought to be a peacemaker serving nine years on the Goldsboro City School Board. Martha advocated for children as a Guardian ad Litem and was a legacy member of Delta Kappa Gamma.
Martha is survived by her daughters, Sandra Ray Umstead and husband, Bob of Cary, Dr. Martha Lee Ray of Goldsboro, and Joy Kimberly Ray Kastner of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Charlotte Florez and husband, Matt and Will Kastner and fiancée, Stacie Gates; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and step-children.
“Big Manning” was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, William Durwood Ray; second husband, William Frances Joyner, Jr; brother, William Troy Winslow and wife, Charlene T. Winslow; sister, Lyda W. Adams; and a grandson, William Brian Umstead.
A service celebrating Martha’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, 2022 in the sanctuary of Saint Paul United Methodist Church with Rev. James Harry officiating. The family will greet friends following the service in Winslow Hall at the church and at other times at the home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Saint Paul playground or Thompson Fund, 204 E. Chestnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
