November 1, 2025, 96, Goldsboro —
Kenneth Ray Boyette, Sr., 96, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, November 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Ray was born in Wayne County on March 25, 1929, to the late Ralph and Mabel Strickland Boyette. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Daniel “Stormy” Boyette and Linwood Earl “Jack” Boyette, and sisters, Evelyn Holland, Vennie Lee Moore and Mabel Louise “Bootsie” Smith.
Ray proudly served his country in the United States Navy and after being discharged he met his wife, Doris, the love of his life. He later retired from Textilease in Goldsboro after 40 years of dedicated service, where his strong work ethic and quiet perseverance earned the respect of all who worked alongside him.
A devoted man of God, Ray lived each day as a faithful servant, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and was anticipating being a great-great-grandfather. His life was a beautiful testimony of humility, integrity, and steadfast faith. He walked in grace, served with joy, and loved others without condition.
For many years, Ray was a charter and active member of Ray of Hope Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, where he found great joy in teaching, worship, service, and fellowship. He also served faithfully as a deacon and church trustee. His passion for sharing the Word extended beyond the church walls through his ministry with The Gideons International, where he placed countless Bibles—especially through the jail ministry and prison ministry—so that others might come to know the Lord he loved so dearly.
In addition to his church involvement, Ray was a Master Mason and an active member of the American Legion, Travelers Protective Association (TPA), and United Church Ministries.
Ray’s family finds comfort in knowing that he has now entered his eternal rest, embraced by the Savior he served so faithfully. His legacy of faith, devotion, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the Ray of Hope P.F.W.B. Church followed by a service to celebrate Ray’s life at 1:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 75 years, Doris Bartlett Boyette; daughter, Rita Carol Boyette; son, Kenneth Ray “Tony” Boyette, Jr. (Pamela); grandchildren, Tonya Boyette Bailey (Thomas) and Bryan Boyette (Tara); and great-grandchildren, Davis Austin Cloutier (Keiley), Ashlee Caroline Cloutier, and Olivia Grace Boyette. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Heyward and Kathy Boyette and sister-in-law, Dorothy Boyette.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Ray’s memory to Ray of Hope Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, New Hope Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
