October 13, 2026, 84, – Raymond Alvin Porter, 84, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by the love of his family. Ray, as he was affectionately known by everyone, lived a life deeply rooted in the land he loved and the family who meant everything to him.
Born on the family farm in Wayne County on July 10, 1942, Ray was the son of the late Alvin and Sarah Lee Westbrook Porter. From an early age, he developed a love and appreciation for agriculture, a passion that would shape his life’s work and become an important part of his legacy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, G. Herman Porter, and his sister, Abbie Jean Porter Poole.
Ray graduated from Grantham High School in 1960, where he was actively involved in 4-H and the Future Farmers of America. His interest in agriculture continued at North Carolina State University, where he was also a member of the Men’s Glee Club. Whether working the soil, developing new opportunities in agriculture, or sharing his knowledge with others, Ray found purpose in a way of life that connected him to his roots and the community he called home.
Agriculture was more than a career for Ray; it was a calling. He farmed on the family land in Grantham, carrying forward a tradition that began long before him. Throughout his career, he worked with several organizations before joining G&M Sales as a sales representative. During his time there, Ray helped advance agricultural operations in Wayne County by building the county’s first 1,224-capacity hog farms. His knowledge, hard work, and dedication contributed to a successful career and reflected his commitment to the industry he loved.
While Ray took great pride in his work, his greatest joy was found in the people he loved. He cherished his family and treasured the memories they made together. His six grandchildren held a particularly special place in his heart, bringing him immeasurable happiness and filling his life with love and laughter. They were truly the loves of his life, and the bond they shared was among his most precious blessings.
Ray also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and the opportunity to explore the world beyond the farm. He and his beloved wife, Sandy, enjoyed camping with friends and were blessed to travel to all 50 states. Those journeys provided opportunities to experience new places, build lasting friendships, and create wonderful memories together. Through it all, Ray remained a man whose heart was firmly connected to home, family, and the land that had shaped him.
His faith was another important part of his life. Ray was a member of Rosewood First Baptist Church, where he shared his love of music by singing in the choir. His church family and faith provided another meaningful connection to the community he held dear.
Ray’s life was a testament to the value of hard work, the beauty of a life lived close to the land, and the immeasurable importance of family. Though his hands may no longer tend the fields he loved, the legacy he leaves behind will continue to grow through the generations of his family and the many lives touched by his work, his friendships, and his love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Sandra Woodard Porter; three daughters, Katherine Porter-Bowman, Lori Willford and her husband, Troy, and Amy Alphin and her husband, Marc; his stepson, Alan Massengill; and six beloved grandchildren, Cameron White, Preston White, Gavin White, Porter Bowman, Avery Alphin, and Aidan Alphin. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ellen McDonald of Goldsboro and several nieces and nephews he loved very much.
The family will receive friends on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A service to celebrate Ray’s life will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel, with Rev. Kevin Davis and Rev. Vernon Braswell officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Ray’s memory to Rosewood First Baptist Church, 562 Hwy. 581 South, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
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